Haydn Fleury is back with the Winnipeg Jets after a scary moment on the ice. Just a day ago, he was taken off on a stretcher during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. It was a tense situation, especially as the Jets narrowly lost 4-3 in overtime.
Coach Scott Arniel shared some details about Fleury’s condition. “He has a broken nose and a bruised back. Thankfully, it’s not as serious as we initially feared,” he said. Fleury’s accident happened when he collided with the boards after being hit by Golden Knights player Keegan Kolesar. Fleury hit hard, and there was no penalty for Kolesar on the play.
The Jets confirmed that Fleury was alert and had movement in his arms and legs before he was taken to the hospital. He has been placed on injured reserve as a precaution, and the Jets have called up Danil Zhilkin from their minor league team in Manitoba.
As for Fleury’s long-term outlook, Arniel mentioned they are still waiting to see if he has a concussion. “You have to be cautious. He could feel fine in a few days, or he might have lingering issues,” Arniel explained.
Interestingly, Fleury hasn’t scored any points in 17 games this season, a tough stretch for him and the team, which has lost 10 games in a row. They’ll face the Edmonton Oilers soon, and fans are hoping for a turn in their fortunes.
In recent seasons, injuries like Fleury’s have raised questions about player safety, especially regarding head injuries in hockey. According to a 2021 study from the Journal of Neurosurgery, players who suffer concussions are at a higher risk for long-term health issues. This concern echoes a growing trend in sports where leagues are putting more emphasis on player health and safety protocols.
As the Jets continue their season, Fleury’s situation is a reminder of the risks athletes face. Fans and teammates alike are relieved to see him back, even if it’s just in the locker room for now. Keeping an eye on his recovery will be essential, and his focus on health and safety could be a pivotal part of the conversation as the season unfolds.
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