Amid a lively match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New York Rangers, rinkside reporter Rob Ray experienced a startling mishap. Rob Ray responded with strong resilience after a puck hit him during the Buffalo Sabres' game against the New York Rangers, quickly returning to his duties even with a stitched forehead.
During Saturday's NHL game, retired hockey star turned reporter Rob Ray suffered a forehead injury due to a stray puck, yet resumed work with notable tenacity, the Daily Mail reported.
Rob Ray, a former player well-known for his robust style during his NHL career, now 56, was covering the game next to the ice. Suddenly, a puck shot off the stick of Rangers' left-wing Beck Malenstyn struck him. This incident occurred early in the game, startling viewers who heard his unexpected expletive as the puck connected.
Caught off-guard by the powerful shot, Ray immediately received medical attention. MSG Network broadcaster Dan Dunleavy detailed the moment, noting the puck's dangerous trajectory near Ray's eye. Team doctors quickly intervened, ensuring Ray's injury was promptly managed.
Despite the painful blow, Ray's commitment didn’t waver. After a brief medical examination and receiving stitches to seal the cut on his eyebrow, he returned to his broadcast position. Fans and colleagues alike were impressed by his quick comeback, demonstrating a grit reminiscent of his playing days.
Throughout the broadcast, Ray humorously referred to the swelling on his forehead as resembling a golf ball. His lighthearted comparison, coupled with a clear view of the injury, made for a memorable broadcast moment despite the circumstances.
The injury marked the second such incident for Ray in recent years, having previously been hit by a puck in December 2023. Despite these hazards, Ray's dedication to his role as a reporter remained unwavering, showcasing his love for the game and commitment to his duties.
Reactions on social media ranged from supportive to humorous, with many praising Ray's toughness and resilience. After his off-the-cuff profanity made it onto the live broadcast, fans on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram defended his reaction, understanding the pain that prompted it.
Some fans humorously noted that it was fortunate the game was at home, joking that not many outside the arena would have heard his expletive. The community largely rallied around Ray, offering both sympathy and light-hearted comments acknowledging the bizarre nature of the incident.
Ray’s incident and his spirited return to the airwaves exemplify the unpredictability and occasional peril of live sports broadcasting. Despite taking a significant hit, many saw his ability to continue reporting with enthusiasm and humor as emblematic of his character and dedication.
Throughout the game, the Buffalo Sabres displayed a dominant performance, eventually defeating the Rangers with a convincing 8-2 score. This victory was not just a testament to the team’s prowess but also underscored the high-energy environment in which Ray’s incident occurred.
Rob Ray also shaped his legacy by influencing NHL rules, leading to the institution of the "Rob Ray rule" to prevent players from shedding protective gear during fights, a tactic he frequently employed. His ongoing involvement in hockey, enduring the physical impacts even off the ice, highlights his lasting connection to the sport.
Ray’s resilience and ability to handle challenges, whether on the ice as a player or beside it as a reporter, continue to endear him to hockey fans. His career, marked by both toughness and charisma, ensures he remains a beloved figure in the world of professional hockey.
