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

Sabourin was taken off the ice on a stretcher with his head immobilized after a collision with Boston forward David Backes.

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.

Super scary moment at the Garden- Scott Sabourin comes in to hit Backes, appears to go unconscious after the collision, Backes shaken up and the arena sounds like a library https://t.co/5V41rh4VRD

— Tucker Boynton (@Tucker_TnL) November 2, 2019

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.

Really nice moment here. All the players left their benches to give Sabourin stick taps.

Sabourin gave a thumbs up as he left the ice too. Hope he’s OK. pic.twitter.com/SLAgz2YiGL

— Hailey Salvian (@hailey_salvian) November 2, 2019

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.