Captain Jonathan Weaver's hopes of returning to the Coventry Blaze line-up this weekend have suffered a setback.
The Great Britain defenceman has been sidelined since undergoing knee surgery on December 7 but his chances of being back for the Elite League games against Dundee Stars and former club Newcastle Vipers have been dashed.
Coach Paul Thompson said the Blaze official website: "He went to see the specialist yesterday and was told it will be another two weeks minimum before he can get out there and skate.
"Weavs has been working hard off the ice but the knee has not healed as they would have liked. It's a blow for us but the way our luck has been going I am not surprised."
However, Canadian goaltender Brett Jaeger is expected to return from a hamstring strain having missed the last two games.
Thompson is relieved to have his No 1 fit again but he also praised British back-up Tom Murdy after he stepped into the breach.
He added: "That is good news about Brett and a massive boost for us.
"The big thing for any young goalie is to get that experience from starting games at this level. Murds is a talented guy, a GB U20 netminder and everyone here believes in him. He has a bright future."
Thompson is hoping his side finally get some reward for their recent performances when they face Stars north of the border tomorrow night and Vipers at the Skydome on Sunday.
Blaze are on a five-game losing run and have only two points from a home defeat after penalty shots to Cardiff Devils on Boxing Day, and an away loss in overtime to Braehead to show for their efforts.
Thompson said: "Dundee are playing really well at the moment and we certainly won't be taking them or Newcastle lightly. Danny Stewart is coming back here and will be wanting to win.
"We have played a lot of hockey recently with so many bodies missing but if anyone think we are going to be easy to beat, then they will be in for a shock.
"My guys have put so much in over the past few weeks and have got no reward for it. I hope that changes and we can get a four-point weeks, that's what we are aiming for."