Melker Karlsson leaves game after being struck in head by slap shot

San Jose Sharks forward Melker Karlsson took a slap shot to the head Saturday night against the Philadelphia Flyers in the first period and went straight to the dressing room.

The 29-year-old missed the remainder of the opening frame and did not emerge for the start of the second period.

San Jose later ruled him out for the rest of the game, and head coach Bob Boughner said postgame that Karlsson received some stitches but the team is hopeful the injury isn't as serious as it appeared, according to The Athletic's Kevin Kurz.

Karlsson is a key penalty killer for the Sharks, who boasted the best rate in the league entering Saturday's contest.