In a high-impact sport like hockey, even a sure-thing player’s praise must be couched in the “health permitting” caveat.
With that in mind, Edmonton Oilers fans - and plenty of fans of the sport at large - are holding their breath after an unsettling crash by Connor McDavid.
You can see video above while Sportsnet’s Faizal Khamisa shared a couple GIFs of the fall.
Here a look at McDavid, falling into the boards. Came up holding left shoulder. pic.twitter.com/aMnv1NXjjJ
— Faizal Khamisa (@FaizalKhamisa) November 4, 2015
Another look at Connor McDavid crashing into the boards. Came up holding his left shoulder. #Oilers pic.twitter.com/dhzsNJW5lf
— Faizal Khamisa (@FaizalKhamisa) November 4, 2015
The Edmonton Oilers recently announced that McDavid won’t return to the game.
There aren’t many details beyond that, although the early word isn’t very promising.
McDavid in the hallway outsite Oilers dressing room with skates off and arm/shoulder in a sling. It's serious.
— Terry Jones (@byterryjones) November 4, 2015
McDavid done for tonight. All we know is left shoulder in a sling. Board collision w/MSZ and Manning
— Tim Panaccio (@tpanotchRET) November 4, 2015
Update: To the credit of the Oilers, they rallied after McDavid’s injury, managing a 4-2 win.