Former Sabres Clarke MacArthur has had a history of concussions and has overcome many obstacles to get back to the ice. Sunday, he took a big hit during practice and was diagnosed with a concussion.
Patrick Sieloff put a big hit on MacArthur near the boards and Bobby Ryan and the Senators took offense. Here’s a look at the play:
Bobby Ryan is ANGRY after dirty hit by P.Sieloff on Clarke MacArthur. ??
Credit: @BradyTrett #Senspic.twitter.com/Mye1AwuM1T
— The Hockey Press® (@TheHockeyPress) September 25, 2016
It’s a devastating hit on a guy that has battled through concussions in his career. General manager Pierre Dorion said that MacArthur will be re-evaluated tomorrow.
“We’re at the point where we’re heartbroken.” – Dorian
In an interview with The Ottawa Citizen, MacArthur detailed his road back to the NHL, and how hard it was to get through each day:
“I needed toothpicks to keep my eyes open for the next two weeks. The headaches. I can’t even describe the feelings. It was awful. I felt like I was failing, this (doctor) said I would be back by January and I can’t even work out. I’ve got a five-month-old at home. It was tougher on Jess than me. It was pretty scary. Whatever I did with that hit in Columbus, all the vestibular (which controls balance) went to hell in a handbag. Focusing on anything was just painful.” – Clarke MacArthur
MacArthur has played for Buffalo, Atlanta, Toronto and is currently on the Senators. The 31-year-old has three 20-goal seasons and has played over 500 NHL games.
We wish him the best in a speedy, healthy recovery. Get well soon, MacArthur.