Ducks' Wisniewski released from hospital

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) -- Anaheim Ducks defenseman James Wisniewski has been cleared by doctors and released from an Orange County hospital earlier than the team initially announced he would be hospitalized.

Wisniewski was hit in the chest by Pavel Datsyuk's slap shot during the second period of Tuesday's playoff game against Detroit. He continued to skate but ultimately fell to his hands and knees while coughing blood as play stopped.

After several minutes Wisniewski was taken to a hospital where it was determined he has a bruised lung. The team indicated Wednesday morning that Wisniewski would be held a second night as a standard medical precaution.

The team later said Wisniewski had been cleared and released on Wednesday afternoon. There was no immediate word on when Wisniewski could resume playing.

Fellow Anaheim defenseman Ryan Whitney was able to speak with Wisniewski on the phone Tuesday night.

"He seems to be in good spirits, it was pretty good news," said Whitney. "I don't think it's anything too serious, but it's pretty scary there when he's coughing up blood."

The Ducks were leading the contest 2-0 at the time of the injury and held on for a 2-1 victory and a 2-1 lead in the series. Game 4 is Thursday.