NHL Referee Steve Kozari Makes Triumphant Return After Scary Collision

NHL referee Steve Kozari made a triumphant return to the ice on Sunday, working his 137th career Stanley Cup playoff game. This was after a scary collision earlier in the month with Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Haydn Fleury during a Pittsburgh Penguins’ victory. Kozari, who missed the remainder of the regular season due to the collision, was back in action for the Vancouver Canucks’ 4-2 win over the Nashville Predators.

The collision occurred on April 6, with 13:49 remaining in the game at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh. Fleury collided with Kozari at center ice, causing the referee to be taken off the ice on a stretcher. Fleury, on the other hand, was able to skate off and head to the Lightning locker room. The incident was described as a “scary collision” by both Pittsburgh coach Mike Sullivan and Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper.

After the accident, Kozari was transported to UPMC Mercy Hospital for precautionary reasons. Fortunately, he was deemed to be “conscious and alert,” with full use of his extremities. It was expected that he would make a full recovery, allowing him to return to his officiating duties. Kozari, a member of the NHL Officials Association since 2003, was eager to get back on the ice and continue his career.

Kozari is no stranger to postseason play, having officiated in the Stanley Cup Final four times. Despite the collision and time off the ice, Kozari was ready to jump back into the action during the playoffs. In the first home playoff game in Vancouver since 2015, Kozari and his crew managed to maintain control of the game, only calling 12 minutes in penalties, including eight on the Canucks.

The return of Steve Kozari to the ice following a scary collision serves as a reminder of the risks involved in the game of hockey. The collision with Haydn Fleury was a frightening moment for everyone involved, but Kozari’s quick recovery and return are a testament to his resilience and dedication to the sport. As he continues to officiate in the playoffs, fans and players alike can feel confident that they are in good hands with an experienced referee like Steve Kozari on the ice.