NHL referee Chris Rooney is looking to return to officiating during the Stanley Cup playoffs after getting a black eye due to a high stick incident in a Game 7 match between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers. Fortunately, Rooney’s injury is not expected to lead to any long-term damage.

The incident took place early in the second period, when Panthers defenseman Niko Mikkola accidentally struck Rooney in the face while attempting to move the puck. Following the accident, Rooney hit the ice, prompting immediate attention from trainers as blood was seen pouring from his face.

Rooney underwent treatment but managed to leave the ice on his own power despite needing stitches for a cut above his eye. He was replaced by referee Garrett Rank for the rest of the game. Commentator Brian Boucher noted that Mikkola was surprised to learn his stick had caused the injury. Cleanup crews even had to clear blood off the ice before the game could continue.