Say a prayer for Patrice Bergeron...

I was hoping that for my first entry as a Backchecking contributor that I would be posting on something Sabres-related, and contribute in some way to the mostly lighthearted fare that Eric (eSabre) has brought to the blog. But with Boston center Patrice Bergeron's injury today, I couldn't help but reflect on the fact that we take for granted the fact that these athletes are risking injury every time they step out on the playing surface. For those who haven't heard about it yet, Bergeron was checked into the boards by Philadelphia's Randy Jones. He lost consciousness, and never regained it--he is at Mass General right now undergoing treatment.

(edit: Here's video:)


Here is the latest from the Boston Herald, which says the injury is "potentially grave", as well as a brief from Rotowire, which reports that it is a "potential neck injury". One could only hope and pray that whatever it is, Bergeron will make a quick recovery.

Update: Relatively good news from the Herald, which says that Bergeron suffered a concussion and a broken nose, and has full feeling in all extremities.

+++++

Update #2: From TSN.ca's recap:

Bergeron was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was being treated by Bruins team physician Dr. Bertram Zarins. There was no immediate word on Bergeron's condition but according to NESN, Bergeron suffered a concussion and broken nose. He is conscious and has full use of his extremities.

Seems like he's going to be okay. Jones will get suspended (one would assume). But that's three times a Flyers player has seriously injured a player since the preseason started. Someone wanna tell them to ease up a bit?
-- eSabre