Former first round pick needs surgery after slow start to NHL career.

The Vancouver Canucks have often been criticized for their development of young players, and now one of those young players has suffered a big setback,

Canucks general manager Jim Benning announced on Wednesday that former 2012 first round draft choice Brendan Gaunce would be going under the knife. 

"Brendan sustained a shoulder injury in March and has been working closely with our medical team," said Benning as per the Winnipeg Free Press.

"After a period of rehabilitation and observation, Brendan and our medical team have deemed, that based on his response to treatment, the best course of action is to undergo surgery for injury management and preparation for next season."

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It's a tough break for a 23-year-old center who has spent the majority of his pro career in the American Hockey League despite his draft pedigree. This season saw Gaunce play in 57 games with the Canucks, the most of his NHL career by far, so the injury couldn't have come at a worse time.

No word from the Canucks on Gaunce's projected recovery time.