Sens' Brannstrom leaves on stretcher vs. Islanders
Published
Ottawa Senators defenceman Erik Brannstrom left the ice on a stretcher and went to hospital for further evaluation after taking a hit in the second period against the New York Islanders.
The team later said Brannstrom was alert and had use of his extremities.
With the Isles leading 2-1 midway through the second period, defenceman Cal Clutterbuck closed out Brannstrom along the boards, causing the Sens' blueliner to fall hard on his upper-body. He stayed down as play was stopped with several Senators players motioning for help from the Ottawa bench.
Medical personnel loaded the 24-year-old onto the stretcher and led him off the playing surface as fans on Long Island gave him a standing ovation. Clutterbuck was not penalized on the play.
Brannstrom played 7:37 before departing. He had appeared in six games so far this season prior to Thursday night.
The Isles went on to win the game 3-2.