The Dallas Stars won't be welcoming second-year forward Valeri Nichushkin back to the lineup anytime soon.

Nichushkin, who underwent hip surgery back in November, visited his doctor late last week and was told he's still four-to-six weeks away from playing, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas News.

"He’s skating before and after practice, but it will be a little bit longer for him," general manager Jim Nill said. "We’ll take it slower and just make sure he’s ready for each step."

As such, Nichushkin, who recorded 34 points in 70 games as a rookie, won't be much help to a team looking to climb back into a playoff spot.