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NHL Referee Injured During Penguins vs. Lightning Game
In a recent NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Tampa Bay Lightning, veteran referee Steve Kozari was involved in a frightening collision that left him requiring medical attention. The incident occurred with 13:49 remaining in the game at PPG Paints Arena when Kozari collided with Lightning defenseman Haydn Fleury at center ice. As a result of the collision, Kozari had to be taken off the ice on a stretcher, while Fleury was able to skate off and head to the Lightning locker room.
Medical Attention and Recovery
After the game, the NHL released a statement confirming that Kozari, a member of the NHL Officials Association since 2003, was taken to UPMC Mercy Hospital for precautionary measures. Fortunately, the statement indicated that Kozari was conscious, alert, and had full use of his extremities. It was reassuring to learn that he was expected to make a full recovery from the incident.
Despite the severity of the collision, reports from “Hockey Night in Canada” on CBC revealed that Kozari was expected to officiate a game the following day between the Detroit Red Wings and the Buffalo Sabres. However, due to his injury, a replacement official was brought in to take his place.
Reactions from Coaches
Both Pittsburgh Penguins coach Mike Sullivan and Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper expressed concern and sympathy for the players involved in the collision. Sullivan described the incident as a “scary moment” and emphasized the seriousness of the situation. Cooper echoed these sentiments, acknowledging that it was difficult to witness such an unexpected event.
Despite the unsettling nature of the collision, the game continued, with the Penguins ultimately emerging victorious with a 5-4 win. Key contributions from Michael Bunting, Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby, and Kris Letang propelled the Penguins into a playoff position following the intense matchup.
As the hockey community rallies around Steve Kozari in his recovery, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the physical risks and challenges faced by referees and players in professional sports.
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