During a frustrating 4-1 loss at Ottawa, an incident happened when Rangers defenseman Jacob Trouba went to clear a puck while on the penalty kill. As he went to rim it around, it accidentally caught referee Tim Peel in the helmet knocking him down to the ice during the first period.

Honestly, it looked a lot worse than it wound up being. After a few minutes down being tended to, Peel got up and was helped off the ice. Considering how shaky he looked, I was thinking worst case scenario. You have to think that whenever you see a player wobbly. This time, it was a ref.

They had to check for concussion protocol. Obviously, it looked really bad for Peel. A scary and freakish play that could’ve been far worse.

Astonishingly, as Trouba scored his goal that made it 2-1 Ottawa in the first period, Peel returned to the game. Something that caught the watchful eye of Sam Rosen. He couldn’t believe it. Maybe that’s why the goal call for Trouba was so confusing. Something he apologized for.

It was more important to see Peel back. His well being is much more crucial than a ugly loss in Game 20 of 82 for this team. When he noticed the ref back, Trouba made a classy move.

Credit to Blueshirt Banter contributor Tom Urtz for catching it as did MSG. It was a great gesture from Trouba, who put his hand around Peel and smiled. That was a happy occasion. You never wish ill will of anyone involved in sports. Especially the officials. As much as we may disagree from time to time with their work, no one can question their dedication.

Kudos to Peel for being a warrior and returning. On this night, he showed more heart than the Rangers. Not an easy thing to acknowledge. I’m glad serious injury was avoided. Great job by Trouba to apologize for what happened.

Stick taps.