Buffalo Sabres Announcer Rob Ray’s On-Air Mishap After Puck Hits His Face

Buffalo Sabres Announcer Rob Ray’s On-Air Mishap After Puck Hits His Face

Buffalo Sabres broadcaster Rob Ray experienced an unexpected hot mic moment during the team’s recent game against the New York Rangers. This incident occurred when he took a puck to the face while positioned between the benches.

The unfortunate event unfolded late in the first period, leaving Ray visibly stunned. A deflected puck struck him just above the eye, resulting in an immediate reaction that illustrated the shock of the moment.

As the puck connected, Ray exclaimed, “Ah, f—,” clearly demonstrating his discomfort. The outburst, caught live on air, drew attention and sparked reactions from viewers.

WARNING: EXPLICIT LANGUAGE

After the incident, players and a team doctor quickly rushed to check on Ray. They observed a noticeable wound above his left eye and on the bridge of his nose, which raised concerns about his condition.

Later in the broadcast, Ray confirmed that he needed only a “couple of little stitches” in the eyebrow area, relieving fears of any serious injuries. He managed to maintain his sense of humor throughout the ordeal, quipping about the size of the lump resembling a golf ball on his face.

Throughout his career in broadcasting, Ray has faced injuries before. He is no stranger to the risks associated with being close to the action, whether between the benches or on the ice.

A Tough NHL Career

Before his broadcasting career, Ray was known for his physical play during his 14 seasons with the Buffalo Sabres. He accumulated 3,207 penalty minutes, solidifying his reputation as an enforcer and setting a franchise record. His time in the penalty box ranks sixth overall in NHL history.

Ray’s aggressive fight style even influenced league rules. The NHL introduced a new regulation regarding players who fought without their jerseys, which came as a direct response to Ray’s unique strategy. He often wore tear-away jerseys, allowing him a tactical advantage by freeing his arms during brawls.

Injury-Prone Yet Undeterred

Interestingly, this incident is not the first time Ray has taken a puck to the face during a live broadcast. In December, just like this recent occurrence, he was struck almost identically — right between the eyes. Despite the likelihood of injury, Ray promptly returned to his duties, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the job.

Ray’s humorous take on his injuries and his ability to continue broadcasting in the face of adversity have endeared him to fans. Just last month, he received the honor of being inducted into the Sabres Hall of Fame, a testament to his significant contributions to the franchise.

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