Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson left tonight’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs after being hit in the face by a puck. The play occurred with less than two minutes left to play in the second period.
After dropping to a knee in an attempt to block a Morgan Rielly pass, the puck deflected off of Andrew Shaw’s stick and shot straight up into Hjalmarsson’s face.
Unfortunately for Hjalmarsson, he does not wear a visor. It’s not certain that a visor would have protected him in this instance, but it is likely that it would have helped. The puck appeared to have hit Hjalmarsson underneath his left eye.
Check out the video below of Hjalmarsson taking a puck to the face. Do you think visors should be mandatory at this point in the NHL? Or do you think it should be up to the player to choose if he wants to wear one? Drop us a note in the comments and let us know what you think!
I believe that visors should not be required. Players should be able to choose the way they want to play and dress.