Curious about what happened to NHL referee Mitch Dunning after his recent injury during the Colorado Avalanche vs Philadelphia Flyers game? Fans and players expressed concern when Dunning was stretchered off after a violent collision in the first period. Known for his steady presence, his unexpected injury raised questions about his condition and how the game continued without him.
So, how did Mitch Dunning get injured? Here’s everything you need to know about the incident, the immediate response from medical staff, and his road to recovery.
How did NHL referee Mitch Dunning get injured?
NHL referee Mitch Dunning sustained an injury due to a collision with Colorado defenseman Josh Manson in Philadelphia on November 18, 2024. Positioned near the blue line, Manson collided with Dunning while skating to join a play in the Philadelphia zone. Dunning fell to the ice, remaining prone for several minutes before being stretchered off the ice by medical personnel and staff members. Medical staff took him to a hospital, where doctors confirmed his neurological signs were normal and his extremities fully functional.
The game paused while trainers attended to Dunning, who moved his feet and hands. Both teams expressed concern. Colorado’s Cale Makar called the incident an unfortunate accident no one wanted to see happen. Despite the delay, play resumed with a referee and two linesmen, as required under NHL protocol in emergencies.
Dunning is a seasoned referee in his seventh NHL season, having debuted in 2019 after a hockey career. Before officiating, he played junior hockey as a defenseman.
This collision highlights the inherent risks referees face in high-speed hockey games while ensuring smooth gameplay amid intense competition. Dunning’s injury underscores the critical importance of safety measures for officials working alongside professional athletes. As of now, his condition appears stable, with expectations for a complete recovery following this unfortunate incident.
