JUST IN: NHL Ref Update After Collision With Avalanche Defender

NHL Referee Recovering After Collision with Avalanche Defender

An NHL referee is reportedly showing signs of recovery after a serious collision with a Colorado Avalanche defender.

During a play in the offensive zone, Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson unintentionally collided with referee Mitch Dunning as he approached the right wall. The impact caused Dunning to fall to the ice in a heap, immediately indicating that the official had sustained a significant injury.

Dunning remained on the ice for several minutes before being stretchered off and taken to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. Meanwhile, Manson was also assessed by the Avalanche’s medical staff. Despite the alarming nature of the collision, there were early indications that Dunning could move his hands and feet as medical personnel attended to him. Manson quickly checked on the referee following the incident, offering words of comfort as Dunning was removed from the ice and transported for care.

Fortunately, Dunning is receiving treatment at a hospital in Philadelphia, and an update from NHL Public Relations provided some relief after the game. According to the statement, Dunning is communicating with hospital staff and has full movement in his extremities.

“NHL referee Mitch Dunning was taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons following a collision in the Avalanche/Flyers game,” the update stated. “All neurological signs are normal, he is fully communicative, and he is able to move all his extremities.”

This update offers reassuring news after a scary moment. While such incidents are always unsettling, it appears that both Dunning and Manson will not experience any lasting effects from this unfortunate accident.

Meanwhile, the Avalanche are working to improve their position in the Central Division standings. Currently, with a 10-9 record through 19 games, they sit in fourth place, trailing the Winnipeg Jets, Minnesota Wild, and Dallas Stars. The competition for the top three spots in the division remains fierce as these teams battle for supremacy.