Devils forward Patrik Elias left this afternoon’s game at the Avalanche on a stretcher. The franchise leading scorer was hit by Colorado defenseman Ryan Wilson 38 seconds into the second period and stayed on the ice for five minutes before being taken off the ice. Encouraging is that he did manage to wave to the crowd.
Judging from a few accounts over on Twitter, the hit didn’t sound bad but was high, snapping his chin back. We’ll have a better idea later.

Entering play, the 33 year-old Czech Republic Olympic captain had 10 goals and 16 helpers for 26 points with three deciding markers and a plus-13 rating in 31 contests.

Rookie defenseman Mark Fraser stepped in for Elias over three minutes later and fought Wilson. In a game the Devils currently trail 2-1 early in the third, there have been three fights. Rob Niedermayer just got his team on the board. Hasan should have more later on this along with Elias’ status.

UPDATE: Early indications are positive on Elias, who is said to be alright and will travel back to New Jersey.