Calgary Flames prospect Sam Bennett could be heading for surgery.

According to TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie, it's more likely than not that the first-round pick will undergo shoulder surgery. If that's the case, the Flames centre will be out for months.

No surgery is still a possibility for Bennett, opting instead for rest and rehab. The Flames are expected to clarify his status later on Tuesday.

Bennett suffered the injury during the Flames' pre-season, but has also battled through shoulder issues much of last season with the Ontario Hockey League's Kingston Frontenacs.

No matter what the Flames and Bennett decide, the 18-year-old will be out for a lengthy period of time and likely won't be considered for Canada's World Junior team.