Players of both teams during Bouwmeester’s treatment. Image: AP
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If ice hockey takes a back seat – that’s how Jay Bouwmeester feels after the collapse
As a member of the Triple Gold Club (Olympic champion, world champion, Stanley Cup winner), Jay Bouwmeester is an ice hockey legend. While playing in Anaheim, the 36-year-old defender of the St.Louis Blues suffered a heart attack on the bench. The game was canceled.
It was 1-1 in Anaheim in the first third when the result of the Ducks game against the St.Louis Blues suddenly became secondary. Jay Bouwmeester slumps on the bench of the reigning Stanley Cup winner. His teammates immediately recognize the seriousness of the situation and call doctors.
Teammates grasp the situation at lightning speed.
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The 36-year-old defender had just completed an 80-second mission when he collapsed – in front of his worried father, who was in the stadium. Doug Armstrong, the general manager of the blues, was at least able to spread good news afterwards. Bouwmeester was awake and responsive after the heart attack and was able to move his arms and legs when he was transported to the hospital. He now stays there overnight.
Armstrong thanked the medical staff of both teams, who were able to help Bouwmeester stabilize quickly. The general manager announced an update to Bouwmeester’s constitution for tonight (Swiss time).
The defender completes his 17th season in the NHL. The game in Anaheim was the 1241st of a long career in which he became Olympic champion in Canada in 2014, world champion in 2003 and 2004 and in which he won the Stanley Cup last season with the St.Louis Blues. Bouwmeester had one of the longest “Ironman streaks” when he appeared in 737 consecutive NHL games by 2014. He is ranked 9th in this list.
Teammates and opponents were just as shocked as the spectators in the stands. “Those were very, very scary moments,” writes a fan. It was unthinkable to continue playing, the game was stopped after twelve minutes.
Impressive: Suddenly it is very quiet in the otherwise noisy arena. Video: YouTube / SPORTSNET
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A decision as to when it will be rescheduled should be made very soon. The schedule calls for the blues to play at the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday.
Blessing in disguise
There was also a moment of shock in Buffalo: Brendan Perlini of the Detroit Red Wings was hit in the face by a skate in the 2-3 against the Sabers. The blade slit his nose, but luckily the 23-year-old is spared from serious injuries. “Brendan is fine,” coach Jeff Blashill gave the all-clear. Perlini said he was in no condition for interviews, but was visibly relieved that he was not injured worse in the accident. (R.A.M)
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