Troy Brouwer scored a goal in the first minute of Saturday’s game against the Red Wings, but whatever celebration there was ended quickly once Jimmy Howard‘s injury became apparent.
Howard stopped a dump-in behind the net and left it for a teammate. Instead, Brouwer snatched the puck and scored on a wraparound.
Howard, seeing he was beat on the play, hurried back into the crease, throwing his left leg toward the far post. That’s when the injury occurred.
Howard was unable to get up. He appeared to be in a lot of pain.
After a few minutes, Detroit’s trainer called for the stretcher. Players from both teams tapped their sticks on the ice and Verizon Center applauded as Howard left the ice.
Jill Sorenson was nearby as Howard was carted off.
#CapitalsTalk Howard had his eyes closed as leaves ice on stretcher. Looks to be in major pain
— Jill Sorenson (@JillSorenson17) January 11, 2015
We heard reports that Howard was being treated at Verizon Center, but that he hadn’t taken his gear off yet.
Howard has apparently not taken off any of his gear, still wearing helmet. And as a goalie, I can tell you that's a really bad sign.
— George Malik (@georgemalik) January 11, 2015
Petr Mrazek replaced Howard in net.
Detroit has since confirmed that Howard’s injury is to the groin, and he will not return tonight. Our wishes go out to him for a speedy recovery.
Meanwhile, that was Brouwer’s 6th power-play goal of the year, giving him a total of twelve on the season. He is now on pace for 24 goals, one behind his career best of 25, set last year.
But that doesn’t really matter right now. Get well soon, Jimmy.
