Kevin Fiala's Olympic injury likely ends his season - ESPN
By Greg Wyshynski, ESPN Senior NHL Writer
Los Angeles Kings star Kevin Fiala's leg injury, sustained during Switzerland's loss to Canada, is expected to end his season, an NHL source confirmed to ESPN on Saturday. Fiala, 29, was stretchered off the ice with a lower leg injury, as diagnosed by the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation. He underwent surgery on his leg after being hospitalized.
The incident occurred with under three minutes left in Canada's 5-1 round-robin victory over Switzerland on Friday. Fiala was hit by forward Tom Wilson near the boards, their legs tangling and Wilson's weight on Fiala's leg. Play was halted, and Fiala was eventually wheeled off the ice face-down on a stretcher, with an air cast on his left leg. No penalty was called, and Swiss coach Patrick Fischer described the incident as 'accidental' post-game.
Wilson, who plays for the Washington Capitals, expressed sympathy, calling the injury 'unlucky'. He emphasized Fiala's competitive spirit and the emotional impact of his potential absence from the Olympic Games, wishing him a swift recovery.
The NHL's participation in the Olympic tournament has long been debated due to the risk of player injuries. Fiala's injury is a significant blow to the Kings, who recently acquired Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers before the Olympic break. Fiala, with 40 points in 56 games and 18 goals, is a key player for the team.
Kings teammate Adrian Kempe expressed sadness and empathy, highlighting Fiala's importance to the team and the unfortunate timing of the injury during a highly anticipated tournament. The team's playoff aspirations are now in doubt, with Fiala's absence potentially devastating their chances.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
