A frightening incident overshadowed Team USA's victory at the IIHF World Junior Championship on Saturday night, as promising defenceman Cole Hutson was rushed to hospital after being struck on the head by a puck.
A Terrifying Moment in St Paul
The alarming event occurred during the second period of the United States' preliminary-round clash with Switzerland in St Paul, Minnesota. With the host nation leading 1-0, a shot from Swiss defenceman Gian Meier appeared to strike the back of Hutson's helmet as the 19-year-old faced the opposite direction.
The Boston University player immediately fell to the ice, prompting a swift response from teammates and medical trainers. The game was halted as Hutson received treatment on the ice, with the capacity crowd at the arena falling into a hushed silence. A stretcher was brought out, and he was carefully transported from the rink to a local hospital for urgent evaluation.
Team USA Secures Win Amid Concern
Despite the distressing interruption, the American team regrouped to secure a 2-1 win. Brodie Ziemer had opened the scoring early in the second period, before Switzerland's Basile Sansonnens tied the game midway through the frame.
Will Zellers scored what proved to be the winning goal just two minutes later, finishing from a sharp angle after a setup from Cole McKinney. A scoreless third period saw both teams press, including with empty nets, but the 2-1 scoreline held firm, moving the United States to a 2-0 record in the tournament.
Positive Update on Hutson's Condition
Late on Saturday night, USA Hockey provided a crucial update, offering relief to fans and the hockey community. The organisation confirmed that Hutson had been released from hospital and was back with the team, with his status listed as "day to day."
"We're thankful for the concern of everyone and the care he has received," the statement read. Team USA coach Bob Motzko reflected on the scare after the game, stating, "It was a scary situation, no question... it's a very close group of guys, and they responded. It knocks you back. The building was silent."
The United States is next scheduled to face Slovakia on Monday in its third preliminary-round game. Switzerland will look to rebound when it plays Germany on Tuesday.
