In the Rangers 4-1 win over the Islanders, MSG reporter John Giannone was accidentally struck by a Marc Staal pass in between the benches. The incident took place near the end of the second period. Giannone caught the puck from the side, bloodying his nose.

Joe Micheletti noticed it right away, surprising Sam Rosen and Al Trautwig. Fortunately, the gritty Giannone was okay. After Rangers trainer Jim Ramsay made repairs, he played hurt- making for a unique story.

The puck to the face has been replayed over and over. Fans and bloggers sent overwhelming support for Giannone on Twitter. The always in character hockey reporter even tweeted his new look the next day. The heart he showed and professionalism earned him respect from the hockey universe. That even included a cameo on The Michael Kay Show with Ranger radio host Don LaGreca.

Giannone will be at MSG as usual for tomorrow’s Ranger game against the Lightning. He’s a classy guy who always responds to fans. More respect to one of the best.