Second overall pick Simon Nemec of the New Jersey Devils sustains injury in Olympic qualifier

The initial tests showed no fractures or dislocations, but further examinations are scheduled. The Devils are praying for good news, hoping Nemec will be ready for the upcoming season.

Slovakia's DennikSport journalist Tomas Prokop noted that although the first tests didn't reveal any fractures or dislocations, Nemec is set for more examinations on Saturday.

The incident occurred when Nemec collided with Hungarian player Bence Horvath in the second period of the game in Bratislava, resulting in Nemec hitting the end boards hard. Despite being in visible distress, he managed to leave the ice and head directly to the locker room.

At just 20 years old, Simon Nemec had an impressive rookie season with the Devils, tallying three goals and 16 assists in 60 games. The Devils had high hopes for him after selecting him second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft.

The team has yet to decide if Nemec will participate in Sunday's crucial final against Kazakhstan, which will determine who secures a spot in the 2026 Olympics. This uncertainty adds to the growing concern among Devils fans and management alike.

The Devils' season opener is fast approaching, and they are hoping that Nemec will recover in time to make an impact from the start. The outcome of his additional tests will be crucial in determining his availability for both the Olympic qualifiers and the beginning of the NHL season.

Stay tuned for more updates as they become available on Simon Nemec's condition.

Source: Sportsnet
Devils' Simon Nemec injured while playing for Slovakia in Olympic qualifier

Source: ESPN
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