German national ice hockey player Tim Stützle was injured shortly before the start of the season in the North American NHL. In a preseason game against the Montreal Canadiens, the striker received a violent and illegal check to the head from opponent Arber Xhekaj, lost his helmet and fell to the ground. The 22-year-old got up again and drove to the bench; a cut was visible on his nose. But after that he stopped playing. The Senators did not provide any details about a possible injury or even downtime.

The team from Canada has two more preparatory games this weekend before the regular season begins next Thursday with a home game against champions Florida Panthers. Stützle is one of the most important players for Ottawa and has been the team’s top earner since 2023. Last season he scored 18 goals and 52 assists.