By: Trent Leith / October 25, 2023 Warning: Some readers may find the following content difficult to read.
On Wednesday night, the Abbotsford Canucks were playing against the Colorado Eagles when Keaton Middleton abruptly ended Podkolzin’s game with a hit against the boards. Middleton used his leg to leverage the 22-year-old winger head-first into the ice.
Following the hit, which was not included in any linked tweets, Podkolzin appeared to have a seizure or convulsion on the ice. All action on the ice came to a complete stop, and medical staff from both teams rushed to give Podkolzin much-needed medical attention.
Once the convulsions subsided, the medical staff managed to get Podkolzin onto a stretcher and off the ice. Both teams cleared their benches to show respect as he was taken off the ice.
Fans in the building reported that Podkolzin was bleeding through his helmet due to the impact with the ice. They also noted that Podkolzin was conscious when being put into the ambulance.
Podkolzin had been on a hot streak, scoring five goals and providing two assists in five games this season, seemingly finding his confidence with the Abbotsford Canucks.
Middleton was penalized with a five-minute major and a game misconduct for the infraction. Despite the Abbotsford Canucks winning the game 5-2, the victory was overshadowed by deep concern for Vasily and his young family.
At the time of writing this article, the Canucks had made no official announcement regarding the incident, but Podkolzin himself has posted on social media.