Haydn Fleury’s night took a tragic turn on Tuesday as the Winnipeg Jets defenceman was carried off the ice on a stretcher following a heavy collision with the boards during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. The incident occurred midway through the first period while the Jets were leading 1-0, hoping to break a frustrating nine-game winless streak.
Fleury, 29, had been pursuing a loose puck in the defensive zone when he was hit from behind by Vegas forward Keegan Kolesar. The unexpected contact caused Fleury to lose his balance and crash backward into the boards. The lively atmosphere at Canada Life Centre quickly shifted to one of concern as players and fans alike watched in silence. Team medical staff arrived promptly to assess Fleury, who remained on the ice for an extended period before being lifted onto a stretcher.
In a show of solidarity, Fleury’s teammates gathered at the bench to support him as he was transported off the ice. The Jets later confirmed that he was taken to a hospital via ambulance but remained fully alert and showed movement in his extremities during the transfer.
Tuesday marked the 17th game of the season for Fleury, who is in his second year with the Jets after being drafted seventh overall. The incident has raised concerns about player safety and the risks associated with high-speed contact in professional hockey. As the Jets continue through their challenging season, fans hope for a swift recovery for the defenceman and are reminded of the physical demands that athletes face on the ice.