Penguins star showed 'zero' concussion sign after fall

pulse

May 10, 2017 5:51 AM

The Penguins captain sparked fresh fears for his health after plunging headfirst into the boards in Monday's Game 6 loss to the Caps.

Sidney Crosby (No. 87) of the Pittsburgh Penguins checks T.J. Oshie of the Washington Capitals in Game Five of the NHL Eastern Conference 2nd round, at the Verizon Center in Washington, DC, on May 6, 2017

Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby insisted on Tuesday he had shown "zero" sign of suffering a concussion following a heavy fall into the boards during his teams playoff defeat to the Washington Capitals.

The Penguins captain -- who had only just returned from a recent concussion -- sparked fresh fears for his health after plunging headfirst into the boards in Monday's Game 6 loss to the Caps.

The Canadian star was examined by a team doctor who ruled he did not need to be removed from play for further evaluation.

The decision raised questions over the NHL's concussion protocol even though it was followed to the letter.

Crosby on Tuesday defended the decision to play on, saying he had shown "zero" concussion symptoms.

"There shouldn't be any wondering about it," Crosby said. "We can sit here and I can explain for 10 minutes what concussion protocol is and all that stuff. I don't really want to do it.

"I think that's up to you to understand all that different stuff. But as far as being checked by a doctor, yes, absolutely. Any guy that goes into the boards like that, the first thing is trainer, then the doctor. That's how it goes."

Crosby, who has a history of debilitating concussions, was concussed in Game 3 of the series.

He returned in Game 5 before playing on Monday.

Crosby said he had "felt fine" after his fall, and said it showed he was back to fitness.

"I was just going hard to the net," Crosby said. "I don't know if I tripped on a stick or someone else. I mean, I just got tripped up there going pretty fast and went into the boards pretty awkwardly.

"Felt fine. Just kind of knocked the wind out of me, but felt fine. If you're looking for a test when you're coming back, that's a good one."

pulse

Enhance Your Pulse News Experience!

Get rewards worth up to $20 when selected to participate in our exclusive focus group. Your input will help us to make informed decisions that align with your needs and preferences.

I've got feedback!