Ryan Wilson hit on Patrik Elias - Devils vs Avalanche - 01/16/2010

As we expressed yesterday, I didn't get a chance to see Ryan Wilson's hit that knocked out Patrik Elias during the Avs' 3-1 win over the Devils in The Rocky Mountains. As had been accurately described, it was a clean shoulder hit catching Elias looking down in an awkward position in front of the Devil bench.

Former NJD color analyst Peter McNab makes a valid point that rookie Matt Duchene's back pressure served as a distraction for a puck rushing Elias, who never saw Wilson. Unfortunately, he was caught flush pushing the chin back. Thus far at least, all indications are the Devils' franchise scoring leader didn't suffer a concussion. Full marks to the Avalanche medical staff for getting out there quickly and safely taking Elias off the ice.

It was nice to see the career Devil wave his right hand as fans cheered. Hopefully, that's a positive sign. Figure the Devs to be extra cautious before bringing him back.

On his next shift, Wilson accepted Mark Fraser's challenge as the two took part in a solid scrap. Accountability. Some reaction from Jacques Lemaire and Wilson.

“When he [Elias] was hit, he lifted up his shoulder,” Lemaire said. “I think Patrik was a little careless.”

“It was a clean hit,” Wilson explained. “I know something’s going to happen during the game. Better to get it out of the way early instead of waiting for someone to take a run at me.”

Best wishes to Patrik.