Wild's Staal taken to hospital after crashing into end boards headfirst

Minnesota Wild center Eric Staal was helped off the ice during the second period of Game 5 against the St. Louis Blues after crashing headfirst into the end boards following a scoring opportunity.

Prior to the start of the third period, the Wild announced Staal is alert and stable and has been taken to hospital for further observation.

Staal appeared to catch goalie Jake Allen's right leg, and lost his balance without being able to brace himself for impact.

Staal remained down on the ice for a few minutes before being helped off by medical staff and teammates.