Referee Forced to Leave Game 7 After Scary Incident with Niko Mikkola

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Jack Sutherland | Last updated May 18, 2025 8:50 PM ET

It was a scary scene on the ice as referee Chris Rooney was hurt and bloodied after taking an accidental high stick to his face from Florida defenseman Niko Mikkola.

Game 7 between the Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs was halted early in the 2nd period because of a scary injury, but not to a player.

Referee Chris Rooney was hurt after taking an accidental high stick to his face from Panthers defenseman Niko Mikkola; Rooney immediately fell to the ice and was seen bleeding badly.

Trainers from both clubs immediately began tending to Rooney, while a stretcher was even momentarily brought out onto the ice, though it was decided it wasn't needed.

Arena personnel immediately began working to remove the blood from Rooney that was both on the ice and had gotten on the boards, while Rooney soon slowly made his way down the Maple Leafs' team tunnel to receive treatment with the assistance of trainers.

The incident took place just seconds into the 2nd period, and there was a noticeable hush that overtook the sellout crowd as fans were concerned for his condition.

Taking the place of Rooney was replacement referee Garrett Rank, who was on standby in case of such an event taking place.

Mikkola won't be facing any kind of disciplinary action from the NHL, as it was an accident and in no way intentional.

Earlier in the playoffs, Dallas Stars forward Mason Marchment somehow avoided discipline from the NHL after he intentionally gave a slash to an on-ice official out of frustration for not getting a penalty call he wanted.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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