Canucks Youngster Stretchered From Game After Dangerous Hit

Vasily Podkolzin left the AHL Abbotsford Canucks matchup against the Colorado Eagles with less than 6 minutes remaining in the game after being hit from behind by Eagles 6'6 defenseman Keaton Middleton. Video shows Middleton slamming into Podkolzin, pressing him into the boards, causing Podkolzin to fall onto the ice, hitting his back and head. As the game continued, Podkolzin did not move, causing the stoppage in play.

Abbotsford was up 5-2 at the time. Play layer resumed, with the Canucks maintaining the score. According to reports, Podkolzin appeared to be convulsing on the ice, unable to leave on his own. Medical officials on-site had to remove Podkolzin via a stretcher, to transport him to a local hospital.

Positively, Podkolzin later posted to his Instagram story, confirming he was alright, although there is currently no word on the extent of his injuries. It hasn't been said if the AHL is looking into disciplinary action against Middleton at this time.

Podkolzin has an Abbotsford leading 5 Goals this season, good for a strong 7 Points in 6 Games to start of the year for Vancouver's minor league club. Podkolzin, a 10th Overall Pick of the Canucks in 2019, has played in 118 career NHL Games for Vancouver, with 18 Goals and 33 Points, as he made a strong impression to return to NHL action before injury. Optimistically, it appears Podkolzin has avoided the worst, and one can only hope for a full and quick recovery.