Springfield Falcons' Wade MacLeod was being treated at Baystate Medical Center after incurring an injury which led to the postponement of Sunday’s American Hockey League game at the MassMutual Center.
Springfield Falcons' Wade MacLeod was being treated at Baystate Medical Center after incurring an injury which led to the postponement of Sunday’s American Hockey League game at the MassMutual Center in Springfield.
SPRINGFIELD – Wade MacLeod, a 26-year-old left wing for the Springfield Falcons, was being treated at Baystate Medical Center after incurring an injury which led to the postponement of Sunday’s American Hockey League game at the MassMutual Center.
MacLeod, a former Northeastern University star playing his second season of professional hockey, was hit from behind late in the second period. After taking the hit, MacLeod was skating toward the Springfield bench when he collapsed to the ice.
He quickly was tended to by paramedics and Dr. Tara Futrell, the physician on duty at the game. As they did so, MacLeod’s teammates gathered around him, some kneeling on the ice close to him.
MacLeod lay on the ice for several minutes, his legs flailing at times. When the attending paramedics got him stabilized and onto a stretcher, he moved his arms. As if in applause, players from both teams tapped the blades of their hockey sticks on the ice.
The incident interrupted the game with three minutes and 12 seconds left in the second period, with Adirondack holding a 2-1 lead.
MacLeod had earned an assist on the Springfield goal, which was scored by Ryan Craig. That gave MacLeod a streak of eight games in which he had at least one point.
UPDATE: MacLeod's family released the following statement through the Falcons later Sunday night:
"We would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming show of support for Wade tonight. Wade is alert, in good condition, in positive spirits, and is resting comfortably at Baystate Medical Center. He will remain at the hospital while he undergoes tests. We are deeply appreciative of all the caring and kind words we have received from family, friends, and fans."