Flames forward exits the ice after a massive, clean hit by Vancouver's JT Miller
Photo credit: Sportsnet
Opening night for the Vancouver Canucks against the Calgary Flames was a rollercoaster. The hosts let a 4-1 lead slip away, eventually losing 6-5 in overtime, but the most nerve-wracking moment had nothing to do with the score.
JT Miller delivered a big hit on Kevin Rooney. Rooney was down, motionless, and it looked severe.
While the hit seemed dirty in real time, the replay showed that was a hockey play. Still, seeing Rooney down and out was a reminder of how brutal the sport can be sometimes.
The focus now is on Rooney's recovery, and the hockey community hopes he avoided a concussion that'll keep him out long-term. It's moments like this that remind us what's really important: the health and safety of the players.
As for Miller, that hit put a target on his back for the rest of the game. Anthony Mantha, Martin Pospisil, and even Jonathan Huberdeau took runs at him, trying to make him pay for it. Mantha even dropped the gloves with Miller early on.
Despite all that pressure, Miller didn't back down. He came up clutch, tying the game late and forcing overtime.
Yet, it was Connor Zary's toe drag and tuck who ensured the Flames had the last laugh.
Still, despite the adversity, Miller took the heat and still managed to notch Vancouver a point in the standings.
Previously on Hockey OTB
| POLL | ||
2 HOURS AGO | 5 ANSWERS Flames forward exits the ice after a massive, clean hit by Vancouver's JT Miller What are your thoughts on JT Miller's hit on Kevin Rooney? | ||
Latest 10 stories
