Michael Bunting injured in the first period in Florida, done for the night

Michael Bunting will not return to tonight's game against the Florida Panthers. The 26 year old Calder Trophy candidate had an awkward fall and took a puck to the face in the same shift. It's unclear which incident caused his early exit from the game, although my money is on the puck to the face.

In those instances, you worry about the potential for a broken nose, jaw or orbital bone. Crossing our fingers and hoping for the best possible outcome for Bunting, who has been an absolute revelation for the Buds this season.

Bunting leads all rookie skaters this season in points and has been an important part of one of the best, if not THE best, lines in the NHL this season. It's likely that he is being held out for precautionary reasons, as having him healthy for the playoffs is much more important than a regular season game, even if it is against the division leading Panthers.

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