Filip Chytil in concussion protocol after hit by Jason Dickinson - out against Utah

Injury to Canucks forward Filip Chytil due to a concussion, and it was one helluva thump from Jason Dickinson of the Chicago Blackhawks. Head Coach Rick Tocchet said Sunday that Chytil would be in concussion protocol and evaluated on an ongoing daily basis. He took the hit from behind and fell into the boards to the ice. He was woozy when getting up before leaving with an unassisted exit. Even without a penalty on the play, the Canucks are worried about this incident within the team.

Given his history of concussions, this becomes much more worrying for Vancouver. Last season, he played just 10 regular-season games with the New York Rangers--all because of concussion issues. The Canucks obtained Chytil as part of the mega-trade in January that sent J.T. Miller to the New York Rangers, and he has been a steady contributor, putting up six points in 15 games since then.

Coach Tocchet told the media that Chytil is "okay," but he cautioned about it. "He's had a few (concussions) in the past. We'll see how this one turns out. Sometimes these things can rapidly turn good, so you gotta stay positive on this." said Tocchet. Chytil did not join the squad for Sunday afternoon's 3-1 loss to Utah, but hopes are that he might catch at least a part of the upcoming six-game away stint if things improve within 48 hours.

The team indeed felt pretty badly about Dickinson's hit on Kiefer Sherwood, who promised payback in the most open way. He has to face the music next year, in response to Sherwood's claims that Dickinson was not around after the incident to answer matters. Derek Forbort reportedly challenged him, but Dickinson did not engage. While he was at it, Tocchet also cautioned his players about making dangerous hits. "He's going to have to answer the bell next year,” he says.
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With uncertainty surrounding Filip Chytil, the Canucks would have to play very carefully as they prepare for the road games that lie ahead. With such a history of concussions, this is a very tender issue, and all the speed of recovery will be wished for by the team. Meanwhile, tension with Jason Dickinson and the Blackhawks will undoubtedly carry over into next season, setting the stage for a fiery rematch.