Islanders' Defenseman Mike Reilly Stretchered Off Following Dangerous Hit
New York Islanders defenseman Mike Reilly was on the receiving end of a massive hit from Sabres forward Jordan Greenway and needed immediate medical attention.
Midway through the second period, with the Islanders up 2-1 on the Sabres, Reilly was attempting to play the puck back to the point in the Sabres zone and in doing so was hit by Jordan Greenway along the boards. It looked like any other hit until the reverse angle replay showed that Greenway followed through his hit with his leg sweeping out the feet from Reilly sending him backwards and landing on his head.
Play was stopped immediately as Reilly laid motionless on the ice clutching his head. Medical staff from both teams rushed onto the ice and a stretcher was called for. After a few moments, Reilly was able to get up with the help of his teammates and make his way down the tunnel to the dressing room.
Greenway was initially given a major on the play, but after review no penalty was called. Given the follow through of Greenway's leg is what caused Reilly to land on his head, it will be interesting to see if the NHL's Department of Player Safety intervenes tomorrow for supplemental discipline. For now though, it appears the worst was avoided for Reilly which is good news and the Islanders held on for the 4-3 victory.
