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Penguins Forward Leaves Game After Nasty Hit

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Penguins
By Nick Horwat | Last updated 2/6/24

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Penguins are likely going to finish their contest against the Winnipeg Jets empty handed as Noel Acciari looked clearly rattled after a hit to the head. Acciari was attempting to dump the puck into the Penguins zone when Jets defender Brendan Dillon clipped him with his shoulder.

Acciari immediately lost his helmet and fell flat to the ice. He tried to get up a couple of times but appeared wobbly and completely unable to get to his skates. After a few moments, Acciari was finally helped off the ice and aided to the dressing room.

Noel Acciari is hit hard up high by Brenden Dillon and goes down on the ice. His helmet flies off and he is slow to get up. Acciari skates off with help from teammates and heads to the Penguins' locker room to get checked. Dillon is subsequently assessed a match penalty.
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) February 7, 2024

Dillon was assessed a five-minute major and a match penalty for an illegal check to the head. After a quick review, the penalty was upheld and the Penguins were given a golden opportunity to increase their lead. The Penguins went on to score twice on the man advantage to go up 3-0.

With his departure in the second frame, he recorded just 5:35 of ice time on seven shifts. Acciari has already battled injuries this year in his first season with the Penguins.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Penguins and was syndicated with permission.

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