Ottawa's Scott Sabourin Taken Off Ice on Stretcher After Collision

Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports

BOSTON — Ottawa forward Scott Sabourin was taken from the ice on a stretcher with his head immobilized after a collision with Boston forward David Backes early in the first period of Saturday night's game between the Senators and Bruins.

Sabourin skated up to make a hit on Backes when the players' helmets collided. Sabourin immediately feel to the ice, appearing to be unconscious, and he lay motionless for a brief period.

Medical staff from both teams rushed to Sabourin, and a Bruins' trainer quickly signaled for a stretcher. There was a large blood spot on the ice under Sabourin's face.

TV cameras showed Backes visibly upset, looking as if he was fighting back tears, as he watched medical personnel attend to Sabourin. An Ottawa player could be seen consoling Backes, putting his glove on his shoulder.

Fans gave Sabourin a loud ovation when he was taken from the ice. Backes went to the dressing room after Sabourin was wheeled off.

The Senators announced Sabourin, who was conscious and talking, was taken to the hospital for evaluation, but no update has been given on his condition.

The Bruins announced in the second period that Backes would not be returning because of an upper-body injury.