By Canadian Press

Canada’s Lafreniere leaves game vs Russia with lower-body injury at WJHC

Dec 28, 2019 | 3:47 PM

OSTRAVA, Czech Republic — Team Canada forward Alexis Lafreniere suffered a lower-body injury during the second period of Canada’s game against Russia on Saturday at the world junior hockey championship and did not return.

With the Canadians trailing 3-0, the 18 year old from Saint-Eustache, Que., bumped into Russia goalie Amir Miftakhov after being knocked slightly off balance by defenceman Yegor Zamula — his left knee twisting awkwardly underneath him as he fell to the ice.

As Lafreniere lay grimacing on the ice in pain, while surrounded by teammates and Canada’s trainer, Ostravar Arena was dead silent.

A potential No. 1 pick in next summer’s 2020 NHL draft, Lafreniere didn’t put any weight on his left leg as he was helped off the ice by teammates.

“We don’t know yet,” Canadian head coach Dale Hunter said when asked about the extent of the injury. “He’s being evaluated.”

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The Quebec native has 23 goals and 70 points in 32 games with QMJHL’s Rimouski Oceanic this season.

He also scored a team-high four points during Canada’s opening 6-4 victory over the Americans on Boxing Day at this year’s world juniors.

“On and off the ice, he’s a leader,” said Canadian forward Ty Dellandrea. “We all know what kind of player he is.”

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 28, 2019.

The Canadian Press