ST. PAUL, Minn. — It was just a scrape on the right side of Mat Barzal’s neck instead of something that could have been a whole lot worse.
The Islanders top center had a scary collision during the team’s 3-2 overtime win over the Wild on Sunday night when his breakaway chance early in the third period resulted in him hurtling through the air, over goalie Alex Stalock, and into the left post.
The organization held its breath as the reigning Calder Trophy winner was slow to get up. But he did, and the 21-year-old was fine.