A scary incident on Long Island on Thursday evening, as Erik Brannstrom sustained an injury. It appeared to be a head injury as he was taken hard into the boards by New York Islander Cal Clutterbuck. As he fell to the ice, he hit his head hard. Joshua Norris and others noticed the seriousness of the situation immediately and began signalling for medical intervention. Brannstrom was stretched off the ice but reported to be alert and moving extremities. He is currently under the care of local medical services.
Injury update: After sustaining injury in tonight's second period, #Sens defenceman Erik Brannstrom is alert, has use of his extremities and has been transported to local hospital for further evaluation.
— Sens Communications (@Media_Sens) October 27, 2023
Ottawa Senators Erik Brannstrom Sustains Head Injury
Hopefully, Erik Brannstrom is healthy and able to make a timely, full recovery. That was a hard smack and nobody wants to see that result. For ‘Branny’ on the ice this year, it has been a tough start to 2023-24. He’s played in all games for the Sens this season and is yet to record a point. However, that really isn’t Brannstrom’s game. He is there to log big third-pair minutes, keep the team out of trouble, and make plays he needs to help the group. His 15:44 of ice time is similar to last year’s total. 2022-23 was a career year for him. Brannstrom recorded career-highs in games played (74), assists (16), and points(18).
What Does This Mean for the Senators
Times are tough for the Senators. Let’s once again hope that Brannstrom is going to be all right. Also, this was on the same day that centre Shane Pinto was handed down a 41-game suspension from the NHL. Thus, the team could really use a spark. Specifically, the defence will be in a tough spot to try to fill Brannstrom’s spot. The team is already without Artem Zub who has missed three games now. Look for a call-up coming from Belleville. It will be interesting to see who gets the tap, Max Guenette, Lassi Thomson, Jacob Larsson, or Tyler Kleven. Some good competition, but Sens management needs to prioritize what’s best for the club.
Main photo: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
