Fast forward seven weeks later and Evans is feeling just fine - and it won't be long before the University of Notre Dame grad is strutting his stuff in front of the Habs' brass at the upcoming 2018 NHL Rookie Showdown at Place Bell in Laval in early September.
"Everything's been positive. I'll be full-go like everyone else. It'll be nice," confirmed Evans, who resumed his regular training routine approximately four weeks ago with renowned strength and conditioning coach, Matt Nichol, in Toronto. "I definitely miss that competitive side of hockey. I want to get back at it. It'll be nice playing in Laval with the home crowd watching."
His last real taste of competitive hockey came back in early April when the Fighting Irish were competing in the NCAA Frozen Four, so Evans' hunger to suit up again is understandable, of course.
Officially pain-free, Evans says going under the knife has had a dramatic effect on his skating ability.
"It's easier to take strides and easier to push now," explained the Canadiens' seventh-round pick - 207th overall - back in 2014. "Skating is a lot easier."
Right now, Evans is hitting the ice three-to-four times per weeks alongside the likes of NHL veterans Tyler Seguin, Michael Del Zotto, Tom Wilson and Michael Cammalleri at St. Michael's College School Arena.
It's a familiar spot to Evans, who went to high school there.
"It's been a big help skating with those guys because they do everything fast. You've got to be fast making plays, so it forces you to ramp up your speed and make quick decisions," explained Evans. "That's something I've been trying to focus on. I'd like to think I'm fitting in with them and challenging them, too. I think that will help me out for camp."
In the gym, Evans has focused his efforts on strengthening his core muscles, which isn't at all surprising given the nature of his recent injury.