Capitals forward Daniel Winnik loses part of ear while blocking shot (Video)
Capitals forward Daniel Winnik paid a pretty huge price for blocking a shot against the Florida Panthers, losing a part of his ear in the process.
They say hockey players are the toughest of all of the professional sports. Washington Capitals forward Daniel Winnik submitted his case for the argument by sacrificing a part of his ear to block a shot against the Florida Panthers.
Obviously, since he’s a hockey player, he didn’t even miss a shirt.
The puck hits Winnik on the side of the head, taking off a part of his ear. While it can’t be seen in the video, Capitals head coach Barry Trotz confirmed it after the game.
It’s quite amazing Winnik was willing to put himself through such pain and he didn’t even miss a single shift.
Barry Trotz said Daniel Winnik lost a little piece of his ear when the puck hit him in the head. Seriously.
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) October 21, 2016
Winnik has made his career around blocking shots and being a strong defensive forward. His sacrifice is one which is surprisingly common. Because his Capitals won 4-2 over the Panthers, consider it a sacrifice that is well worth the pain.
Another incredible thing about this is Trotz mentions it like it’s nothing. Just another day in the life for a fourth liner who kills penalties.
The Capitals traded for Winnik last season, giving the Toronto Maple Leafs Brooks Laich and Connor Carrick in exchange. So far with the Caps, Winnik is tied for the team lead in goals for the 2016-17 season with two goals. Both of those goals came against the New York Islanders. Winnik spends most of his time on the Capitals’ fourth line and is an important member of their penalty kill.
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This season, the Capitals are off to a strong start thanks to Winnik. Following their 4-2 win over the Panthers, the Caps are 3-0-1 on the season and sit in first place in the Metropolitan Division.