Sabres lose JJ Peterka to concussion on high hit by Devils' Brenden Dillon
Peterka was carrying the puck through the neutral zone when Dillon finished the high hit that dropped the Sabres winger to the ice.
Buffalo Sabres right wing JJ Peterka (77) celebrates a goal during the first period against the Colorado Avalanche at KeyBank Center on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023. Joshua Bessex/Buffalo News
One of the Buffalo Sabres' top forwards was lost to an injury only six minutes into their game Saturday in Prague's O2 arena.
JJ Peterka, whose 28 goals last season were the most among the Sabres' returning players, left after he was hit in the head by New Jersey Devils defenseman Brenden Dillon in the first period. Sabres coach Lindy Ruff told reporters after the game that Peterka was diagnosed with a concussion.
Peterka was carrying the puck through the neutral zone when Dillon finished the high hit that dropped the Sabres winger to the ice. Alex Tuch responded by fighting Dillon, and Peterka needed to be helped to the bench by a trainer.
Dillon was initially called for a five-minute major penalty, but it was rescinded and changed to a two-minute minor after a video review. Buffalo did not have a shot on goal during the ensuing power play.
