Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb was rushed to a Raleigh hospital after a slap shot clocked at 87 mph hit him below his visor during Game 2 of the 2026 Stanley Cup Finals.. the injury left his condition unknown and the series tied at one game apiece.

87 MPH slap shot sidelines McNabb in Game 2

The puck struck McNabb just below his visor, breaking his skin and prompting immediate medical attention, according to the game report. Team doctors evaluated him on the ice before escorting him to the hospital, where he remained for observation.

Hurricanes force OT win to tie series in Raleigh

North Carolina’s Carolina Hurricanes responded to the incident by clinching a 4‑3 overtime victory, evening the best‑of‑seven series. The winning goal came in the extra period, giving the Hurricanes momentum heading into Game 3.

Carter Hart’s comeback amid past assault allegations

Goalie Carter Hart, who helped Vegas reach the finals, remains under scrutiny after being charged in 2024 with sexual assault stemming from his time with the Philadelphia Flyers. Despite the legal cloud , Hart returned to the ice after a year‑and‑a‑half hiatus, and his performance continues to draw both praise and criticism.

Potential surgery parallels with Patrice Bergeron’s 2019 injury

If McNabb requires surgery, the situation could mirror former Boston Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron, who fractured his jaw from a puck in the 2019 Finals yet missed no action after a quick procedure. Doctors have not confirmed whether surgery will be necessary,leaving the Knights uncertain about his availability for the remainder of the series.

Will McNabb need surgery and miss later games?

Key unknowns include whether McNabb will undergo an operation and how long recovery might take. the report does not provide a timeline , and the Knights have not released a definitive update on his status.