Stepan has headed into the locker room after this hit by Lovejoy. #NYRvsPIT #StanleyCupPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/uH2tItLi8j
— Hockey Primer (@HockeyPrimer) April 16, 2016
New York Rangers forward Derek Stepan left for the dressing room, moments after being hit by Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Ben Lovejoy during the third period of Game 2.
While racing after the puck in the corner, Lovejoy pushed Stepan into the boards from behind. Stepan remained down for a few moments, but skated to the bench under his own power. No penalty was called on the play.
Thankfully for New York, he returned to the bench with just over two minutes remaining in the game, and wasn't worried when asked about the injury after the game.
Derek Stepan says he's fine. Had to go through concussion protocol but passed and was in the room to talk to the media.
— Andrew Gross (@AGrossRecord) April 16, 2016
The 25-year-old center scored both Ranger goals in their series-opening loss on Wednesday. He had no points, and four shots on goal before exiting the game Saturday.
