Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Roman Polak was forced to leave Wednesday’s game against the Washington Capitals after taking a puck to the face.
Polak was battling in front of the Leafs’ net early in the first period with Capitals forward Marcus Johansson when a Troy Brouwer one-timer from the slot was deflected and hit Polak.
The physical 28-year-old blueliner, blood dripping from his face, was taken to the dressing room for repairs and sat out the remainder of the first period. He returned to the bench midway through the second frame with fresh stitches visible on his swollen right cheek and recorded an assist on the Leafs’ second goal.
Ya, he’s tough.
Polak had four goals, two assists and 20 penalty minutes in 30 games heading into Wednesday’s action.