The San Jose Sharks very own Logan Couture was shaken up after taking a hard hit from Team USA forward T.J. Oshie.
Couture briefly left Friday night’s game United States with an apparent "upper-body injury." That is hockey speak for his bell was rung.
Oshie pushed Couture from behind, forcing the Canadian forward to go hard into the boards early in the second period. The game came to a screeching halt while Couture was helped off the ice. It looked like his night was done, but he is Canadian and one tough SOB. Couture was back on the bench by the third period.
WATCH: T.J. Oshie catches Logan Couture with a brutal hit along the boards. https://t.co/eHeyibEcUk #WCH2016 pic.twitter.com/dmtPdSuPzf
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) September 10, 2016
No penalty was called on the play and I think it was too close to call. I didn't think the hit was dirty, but it was just poorly timed. Couture turned to face the boards with is head down as Oshie finished his check.
This collision led to more rough stuff as both teams showed why there is no love lost in the USA/CAN rivalry.
Folks, this was a tune-up game!
The World Cup hasn't even started yet and it already has the makings of a classic. The game was intense and physical with Team USA pulling out the 4-2 win.
Team USA and Sharks captain, Joe Pavelski scored the game-winning goal. Of course he did...he is, after-all, Captain America. For Sharks fans it was the Couture injury that will leave a lasting impression.
It's the exact thing that has me crossing my fingers going forward. With 7 Sharks in the tournament, the odds are pretty good that somebody is going to get hurt. Couture's tournament was nearly over before it began. I don't have to remind you guys how much better the Sharks are with Cooch in the lineup than without.
Hold your breath people. The real tourny start next week in Toronto.
Thanks for reading, Steve