San Jose Sharks forward Igor Chernyshov exits against Montreal Canadiens after scary fall

MONTREAL — San Jose Sharks forward Igor Chernyshov left Saturday’s game against the Montreal Canadiens after a scary fall early in the first period.

Chernyshov was exiting San Jose’s end roughly 20 seconds into the game when he collided with Canadiens defenceman Mike Matheson and fell hard, sliding headfirst along the ice and bloodying his face.

The 20-year-old winger attempted to stand twice but lost balance both times as a linesman tried to hold him upright.

Sharks trainers rushed onto the ice and helped Chernyshov to the dressing room as the Bell Centre crowd looked on quietly.

The Sharks announced during the first intermission that Chernyshov would not return to the game.

The Canadiens released a statement on social media, saying their thoughts were with Chernyshov.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 14, 2026.

The Canadian Press