During the Carolina Hurricanes’ 3-2 loss against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday, defenseman Dougie Hamilton left the game after getting his skates tangled with forward Kevin Stenlund and falling awkwardly on his leg.

As Hamilton fell late in the second period, his left leg bent underneath him and his full weight came down on top of it. He was unable to stand after the tumble and required help from a trainer and teammate Trevor van Riemsdyk to leave the ice. Hamilton did not return to the game.

Warning: This video might be disturbing to some.

Video

Head coach Rod Brind’Amour told the media following the game that it “doesn’t look good.” He added, “That’s a tough one. Obviously, you hate to see guys get hurt. It’s unfortunate but it’s part of it.”

Friday morning, Nick Kypreos reported that Hamilton suffered a broken fibula and it could keep him out months.

Dougie Hamilton suffered a broken fibula last night. Further evaluation today will determine if surgery is needed. Similar injury that shut down Jordan Staal 1/2 season in 2014. @nhl @SiriusXMNHL @Canes

— Nick Kypreos (@RealKyper) January 17, 2020

Hamilton has been having a breakout season with the Hurricanes and was getting Norris Trophy buzz from national analysts. He currently ranks fourth among NHL defensemen with 40 points, just 10 points off from his career-high, and was recently named for the first time to the NHL All-Star roster. Losing Hamilton indefinitely would be a huge blow to the Hurricanes, as he averages the most minutes per game amongst skaters at 23. Hamilton is also a key piece of the Hurricanes power-play unit.

Dougie Hamilton with a scary fall along the boards. His left leg bends… very awkwardly. He got off the ice putting no weight on his left leg. This doesn't look good. pic.twitter.com/4dGB2Gup3S

— Brett Finger (@brett_finger) January 17, 2020

The Hurricanes are currently locked in a battle for an Eastern Conference wildcard spot to secure their place in the playoffs. They currently sit in the first wildcard spot, tied at 56 points with the Blue Jackets, with one fewer game played. The Philadelphia Flyers are also on 56 points, but are just outside the cutoff, and Florida Panthers are right behind with 55 points.

The Anaheim Ducks are up next for the Hurricanes on Friday, the second half of their back-to-back, which could see Columbus edge ahead of them in the standings depending on the outcome.

Headline photo: Sportsnet