Chicago Blackhawks top prospect Nick Lardis injured after devastating hit that resulted in a major suspension

Nick Lardis was drafted 67th overall in the 3rd round of the 2023 NHL Draft.

He'd have a spectacular season, scoring 71 goals, and 117 points with the Brampton Bulldogs and helping the team to the OHL playoffs with his historic year.

Now, thanks to Andrew Gibson, a Detroit Red Wings draft pick, who felt it was necessary to hit Lardis' knee-on-knee, Lardis' post-season may be over.

Gibson would be suspended after the penalty, as he should've been. But the great tragedy is the risk of Lardis not being able to help push his team deeper in the playoffs.

However, shame knows no bounds, as later this 5-minute major was deemed not a penalty.

In what scenario is that not a 5-minute major or a game misconduct?

That is ridiculous, especially since Lardis will miss time on the ice. Gibson should serve at least the time Lardis is out or more, depending on the severity of the injury Lardis will have to recover from.

Lardis has been a bright spot for the Bulldogs, as he's added 11 goals during the team's playoff run, in addition to his 117 points in 65 regular-season games.

The Oakville-born forward is just the eighth OHL player to hit 70 goals in the regular season.

There has been no confirmation of an injury that he's suffered as a result, but Head Coach McKee said he was being evaluated last night.