Canucks prospect McCann out for rest of World Junior Showcase after taking high hit

There's never a dull moment when Canada and Russia take the ice.

During Monday's World Junior Showcase game between the two hockey powers, Russian defenseman Nikita Zhuldikov delivered a thunderous high hit to Canadian forward - and Vancouver Canucks prospect - Jared McCann.

McCann was forced to exit the game, and Canadian coach Dave Lowry confirmed Tuesday that the 19-year-old will be held out of the remainder of the Showcase.

"We’re just holding him out for precautionary reasons," Lowry said, according to Ben Kuzma of The Province. "You’re better to err on the side of caution. He’s not going to play again (this week) and at this stage, there’s no sense in rushing anybody back.

"He took a hard lick, but players have to have awareness on ice. He was straight line and looking back."

For his part, Zhuldikov received a two-minute minor for head contact, and a 10-minute misconduct, after which he was able to resume playing.

McCann scored 34 goals and added 47 assists in 56 games for the OHL's Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds this past season.

Canada and Russia will meet again Wednesday.