via the CP at the Globe and Mail,

Cheveldayoff talked to reporters in San Jose a day after reports emerged that Byfuglien underwent surgery for a high ankle sprain last week in his native Minnesota, and that the Jets were not directly involved in the decision-making process.

The general manager confirmed both points on Thursday, but otherwise danced around questions regarding Byfuglien’s status with the team.

“It’s a complicated issue,” Cheveldayoff said. “It’s a real complicated issue when it comes to answering any questions that you might have.”

Cheveldayoff wouldn’t say whether there was a difference of opinion between the team and Byfuglien’s camp on what kind of medical procedure was required to address his ankle injury, which he suffered late last season. He also wouldn’t weigh in on whether a return to the Jets this season was a possibility for Byfuglien.

“We were aware he was contemplating [the surgery],” he added. “When we said we weren’t directly involved, we weren’t directly involved. But we knew he was contemplating that. As far as what remains for the future, it’s something that we’ll just have to wait and see.”

added 4:56pm,