Losing the occasional tooth is simply an occupational hazard that comes with being a professional hockey player.
New York Islanders forward Brock Nelson found that out on Monday night and even had to take it upon himself to perform some self-dentistry on the team's bench.
Watch here as he casually yanks out his own tooth after taking a high stick from Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander during the Islanders' 5-2 defeat.
Brock Nelson D.M.D. pic.twitter.com/fkMoTWiLGs
— Isles on MSGSN (@IslesMSGN) January 24, 2023
Ouch!
Making matters worse for Nelson and the Islanders, not only did he lose a tooth, but the Islanders did not even get the benefit of a power play as the referee standing right next to the play did not call the obvious high-sticking on Nylander.
That could have been as much as a four-minute power play for the Islanders given the injury. Unfortunately for Nelson and the Islanders, missed calls are also an occupational hazard in the NHL.
Nelson also recorded an assist in the game, setting up team captain Anders Lee's first-period goal.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!