Boston Bruins’ David Backes gets hit hard by J.T. Miller of the Tampa Bay Lightning in game 5 of their Eastern Conference Semi-Final Matchup.

Late in the 2nd period of game 5 with the scored tied a one a piece, Lightening forward J.T. Miller had quite a strong collision with veteran NHLer David Backes, which forced  him to leave the game with the aid of his teammates. In the moments after the hit, Backes was lying on the ice in a relatively still position until he was brought to his feet with the assistance of two of his teams and eventually guided into the dressing room for further evaluation.

The hit seemed to look clean and free of any malicious intent, however, there is no doubt the the league disciple committee will review the incident in an attempt to make any sort of ruling on the play. Backes did not return for the third period of Game 5, which isn’t surprising considering the visible lack of awareness he seemed to display on his way off the ice.

What is seriously concerning is that David Backes has reportedly suffered from two concussions in the past and has missed games in order to aid his recovery. The 34-year old native of Minnesota made the move to the Boston Bruins last year, leaving behind the St. Louis Blues. The Bruins were clearly shaken up by what had transpired as they did not register another goal for the remainder of the game and to add insult to injury, J.T. Miller scored the eventual game-winner less than two minutes later on a power-play.

The game ended with a score of 3-1 and the Tampa Bay Lightning eliminated the Boston Bruins and punched their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals where they will take on either the Washington Capitals or Pittsburgh Penguins.

(Video courtesy of Sportsnet.ca)