BOSTON — Ottawa forward Scott Sabourin was taken from the ice on a stretcher with his head immobilized after a collision with Boston forward David Backes early in the first period of Saturday night’s game between the Senators and Bruins.
An ambulance took Sabourin to a local hospital for evaluation. He was conscious and speaking to attendants when he left the arena, according to the Senators.
Sabourin skated up to make a hit on Backes when the players’ helmets collided. Sabourin immediately fell to the ice and he lay motionless for a brief period.
Medical staff from both teams rushed to Sabourin, and a Bruins’ trainer quickly signaled for a stretcher. There was a large blood spot on the ice under Sabourin’s face.
TV cameras showed Backes visibly upset, looking as if he was fighting back tears, as he watched medical personnel attend to Sabourin. An Ottawa player could be seen consoling Backes, putting his glove on his shoulder.
Backes went to the dressing room after Sabourin was wheeled off. There was no word on why Backes left the ice.
Fans gave Sabourin a loud ovation when he was taken from the ice.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.