Evgeny Kuznetsov left the ice early in the second period after absorbing a high stick to the face.

As the Russian center went in for a body check in the corner, Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Deryk Engelland caught Kuznetsov in the face with the follow-through of his pass.

Kuznetsov, doubled over in pain, would immediately head to the bench and go down the tunnel for repairs.

Seconds later, Alex Ovechkin came to his countryman’s defense and confronted Engelland because C’mon, dude. Not the face.

The two traded some saucy words before being split up by officials.

Sure, Ovechkin would get a two-minute minor for interference, but it’s always nice to see the boys sticking up for each other.

Kuznetsov would return for third period no worse for wear.

Full RMNB Coverage of Caps at Golden Knights