Golden Knights defenseman leaves Game 2 after puck strikes face

Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb left Thursday's Game 2 loss in the Stanley Cup Final after a puck struck him in the face during the first period. McNabb was positioned in front of goalie Carter Hart when a shot from inside the blue line hit him around the visor at 87 mph. He dropped to the ice, then stood and left the ice clutching his nose.

Injury and team response McNabb did not return for the second period.

He left the arena for hospital evaluation, according to a report by ESPN's Emily Kaplan. Coach John Tortorella confirmed on Friday that the 35-year-old was traveling home with the team but provided no further medical update. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday in Las Vegas. Defenseman Jeremy Lauzon moved into McNabb's spot on the top defensive pairing.

Series context Vegas held a 1-0 lead when McNabb exited and ultimately lost 4-3 in overtime, leaving the best-of-seven series tied 1-1. McNabb has recorded one goal and six assists in 16 playoff games while averaging 20:53 of ice time per game.