Johnny Boychuk injury: Bruins defenseman taken off on stretcher after hit

Boston Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk had to leave on a stretcher on Thursday night after he was hit from behind by Max Pacioretty.

By Adam Gretz Dec 5, 2013, 8:06pm EST

In a sight that's becoming all too common this season, Boston Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk had to be taken off the ice on a stretcher on Thursday night after crashing into the boards from this hit by Montreal's Max Pacioretty.

Pacioretty was given a two-minute minor for boarding.

As the trainers arrived to Boychuk on the ice he was on his knees and appeared to be having some trouble catching his breath.

Boychuk was taken to a local hospital for observation. According to Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli before Boychuk left the arena "he was able to demonstrate movement in all of his extremities."

In 26 games this season Boychuk has averaged more than 21 minutes of ice-time per game and has one goal to go with five assists.