Zach Redmond from the Winnipeg Jets.
Photo: Getty Images
An NHL player has had an artery and vein severed by an ice skate in an horrific training accident.
Zach Redmond, a 24-year-old from the Winnipeg Jets, sustained the injury - a deep cut in his right leg - on Thursday and required lengthy surgery as a result.
"What took place is we were trying to get our extra players conditioned, there was a 1-on-1 battle at the net and (Redmond) was tripped up, ended up on his back and the player happened to step on him just above the back of the knee," the Winnipeg Sun quoted team coach Claude Noel as saying.
"It's a fairly wide cut, so we're taking him to the hospital and we'll see what the diagnosis is when they take a look at him there. He lost a fair bit of blood and he's in some pain. It looks like it's a vein. It's tough on your team."
The Winnipeg Jets also issued this statement regarding the mishap:
"Zach is currently resting comfortably in recovery and is expected to be out an indefinite period of time."
"The Jets would like to recognise the quick actions of the team's training staff and teammates in helping Zach receive the urgent treatment necessary."