Sharks’ Igor Chernyshov Hospitalised After Collision with Canadiens’ Matheson

Montreal — San Jose Sharks rookie forward Igor Chernyshov was taken to the hospital after a collision with Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson during Saturday’s game. The incident occurred just 20 seconds into the first period at the Bell Centre.

According to Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky, Chernyshov was evaluated at the hospital but has since been discharged and rejoined the team. He is expected to travel with the Sharks to Ottawa for their next game.

Details of the Incident

Chernyshov collided with Matheson in the neutral zone and fell headfirst, sliding along the ice and sustaining a bloody face. He attempted to stand twice but was unable to maintain his balance, requiring assistance from a linesman and Sharks defenseman Vincent Desharnais to reach the dressing room. Sportsnet and The Hockey News both reported on the incident.

“A scary situation and we kind of knew he was going to be OK,” Warsofsky said after the Sharks’ 4-2 win. “Injuries happen and you see a guy move down, you got to play for him.”

Desharnais noted the concern from Canadiens players, stating that Matheson and Alexandre Carrier both inquired about Chernyshov’s condition immediately after the play. Matheson himself expressed surprise at the severity of the fall, saying he hadn’t initially realized Chernyshov was down.

Recent Recall and Line Placement

Chernyshov was recently recalled from the San Jose Barracuda on Thursday and had been slotted onto the Sharks’ top line alongside Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith. He was as well practicing on the second power-play unit. Stamford Advocate reported on his recent recall and line placement.

Coach’s Perspective

Warsofsky downplayed the possibility of intentional wrongdoing by Matheson, suggesting it may have been an interference penalty but not a malicious hit. “I don’t think the player is trying to do that,” he stated.