Wild’s Sturm sent to hospital for exam after puck strikes his head, reminding team of Faber’s injury

Minnesota Wild forward Nico Sturm was hospitalized for a precautionary evaluation following a puck strike to the head during Monday night's game against the Vegas Golden Knights. The incident occurred when teammate Jared Spurgeon's slap shot hit Sturm on the right side of his helmet in the first period. Sturm visibly dropped to the ice, prompting immediate medical attention from the team staff.

He was assisted off the ice by center Michael McCarron, who expressed concern, noting that the area around his ear was affected, similar to Brock Faber's previous injury. McCarron emphasized the inherent danger of playing near the net, where pucks frequently whiz by. Sturm, who has primarily played center throughout his career, filled in on the fourth line due to Marcus Foligno and Nick Foligno's injuries.

Despite the team's current challenges, they have started their season with a 4-1-1 record. Coach John Hynes expressed confidence in the team's unity and identity, while Faber, who has been making "lots of good progress" after his own head injury, has scheduled additional medical evaluations.