Saturday was a rough night for NHL officials, with two leaving their respective games after suffering injuries.
Linesman David Brisebois was on the wrong end of a blindside hit from Columbus Blue Jackets defender Markus Nutivaara, who was sliding along the ice after losing an edge. Brisebois, who never saw the hit coming, landed hard on his head and left shoulder.
The game continued for a short time with three officials. Brisebois returned to the ice later in the game.
Referee Justin St. Pierre was not so fortunate.
He suffered an injury – reportedly a broken hand – during the New York Rangers’ matinee against the Edmonton Oilers. St. Pierre was unable to return for the third period.
Referee Jon McIsaac completed the game as the lone referee alongside linesmen Ryan Daisy and Greg Devorksi.
Here’s wishing St. Pierre a speedy recovery and continued good health for Brisebois, who undoubtedly has quite a stiff neck today.
