Press Article: Scotiabank Arena Scene Turns Dramatic in Game 7
A tense moment unfolded at Scotiabank Arena on Sunday night during Game 7 between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers. Just 13 seconds into the second period, referee Chris Rooney suffered a high stick to the face from player Niko Mikkola, resulting in a bloodied scene that left the official unable to continue.
Rooney, a Boston native, remained on the ice for several minutes as trainers attended to him. Despite blood visible on the boards, a stretcher was initially brought onto the ice but was later called off after Rooney, clutching a towel to his face, was seen conversing with medical staff. Ultimately, he was escorted to the dressing room for further evaluation.
Garrett Rank stepped in as the alternate referee following Rooney’s departure. Celebrated in January for officiating 1,500 NHL games—the only American to reach that milestone—Rooney had marked this achievement earlier in the year during a match involving his hometown Boston Bruins.
The incident added an intense layer to an already critical playoff game, leaving players and fans alike anxious for the well-being of the veteran referee.
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