How long is Brock Faber out for? How the Minnesota Wild defenseman suffered skull fracture; latest injury update

Minnesota Wild are set to open the season without one of their key young defensemen after Brock Faber sustained a serious and uncommon injury .

The 24-year-old underwent surgery on Sunday to repair a fractured skull, with general manager Bill Guerin confirming the procedure on Tuesday.

"He just had a serious ​surgery and an injury, so we're just gonna update you ‌guys when the time's right," Guerin said in a media interaction.

Guerin said Faber is doing well following the surgery, but emphasized that the organization will follow the medical team's guidance before making any decisions about his return.

"But he's doing well. He's doing really well, which is good news. And we'll just follow the doctors' leads," the Minnesota GM added.

Faber sustained the injury during Minnesota's preseason finale against the Dallas Stars.

During the second period, a deflected shot from Dallas forward Sam Steel struck Faber near his left ear. He stayed down for a short time before getting up and making his way to the bench on his own.

The defenseman returned for the following shift and continued playing through the remainder of the period. However, the Wild ultimately took him to the hospital during the third period after the injury was further assessed.