Chris Rooney made his return as an NHL referee during Game 4 of the Western Conference Final, officiating the matchup between the Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars. This marked Rooney's first appearance since suffering a high stick injury to the face in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference second round, which involved the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers. Despite being bloodied and requiring stitches, Rooney managed to leave the ice under his own power and expressed a desire to return for playoffs. Now, at age 50, he was partnered with Dan O'Rourke and supported by linesmen Ryan Gibbons and Matt MacPherson.

Chris Rooney, the NHL referee, is recovering after sustaining an eye injury during Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Florida Panthers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. The incident occurred just moments into the second period when Rooney was inadvertently struck by a stick from Panthers defenseman Niko Mikkola, resulting in a significant cut above his right eye that required stitches. Despite the alarming nature of the injury, Rooney has reported no lasting damage and aims to return to officiating as soon as possible.

The Panthers triumphed with a decisive 6-1 victory, leading them to the Eastern Conference finals for the second consecutive year. They are set to face the Carolina Hurricanes, while the Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers will compete in the Western Conference finals. This win solidifies the Panthers' strong position as they advance deeper into the playoffs.

Chris Rooney, a veteran NHL referee, is looking to return to officiating duties in the Stanley Cup playoffs after sustaining a high stick to the eye during a recent playoff game. The incident occurred just seconds into the second period of Game 7 between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers. Despite the injury, Rooney managed to leave the ice independently, albeit with a black eye that required stitches.

Rooney's swift recovery has been confirmed, allowing him to potentially resume his responsibilities as the playoffs advance. He was replaced during the game by Garrett Rank, who was prepared for such emergencies. As the East finals are set to commence, all eyes will be on the officiating team, especially considering the stakes involved.

In a dramatic turn of events during Game 7 of the Florida Panthers-Toronto Maple Leafs series, referee Chris Rooney exited the ice after sustaining an injury from a high stick by Niko Mikkola just 13 seconds into the second period. The impact knocked off Rooney's helmet, leading to a serious fall that required medical assistance. Following the incident, the game’s score remained tied before the Panthers quickly seized control, scoring three goals in succession.

Rooney, who needed stitches above his eye, was replaced by backup official Garrett Rank, highlighting the NHL's preparedness for such situations. The game, pivotal in the playoff series, continued with heightened intensity as the Panthers capitalized on the momentum shift.

Game 7 between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers took a shocking turn when referee Chris Rooney was struck in the face by a stick, leading to a bloody scene that halted the game. The incident occurred shortly after the second period began, involving Panthers defenseman Niko Mikkola, who was attempting to play the puck. Rooney immediately fell to the ice, prompting players to call for medical assistance as blood spilled onto the rink. After receiving on-ice treatment, Rooney was able to leave under his own power, although he required stitches for a cut above his eye.

With Rooney sidelined, replacement referee Garrett Rank took over officiating duties. The incident left Mikkola reportedly surprised to learn his stick was the cause of injury. Following the referee's exit, the ice crew needed to clear blood from the playing surface before resuming the game, adding to the tension and urgency of the moment in this high-stakes series.