NHL Confirms Incident Involving Lugano Player
In a concerning incident during a recent Swiss league match, Mike Sgarbossa, a forward for HC Lugano, was struck by a coin thrown onto the ice by a spectator, as detailed in the club’s official statement.
The incident occurred in the third period of last Thursday’s game against Friborg, creating a startling moment for players and fans alike. Sgarbossa was skating toward an opponent when he lost his footing and fell into the boards—a scenario that quickly escalated when the object struck him.
Lugano reported that the former Washington Capitals player, who has contributed 11 points in 18 games this season, sustained an upper body injury as a result of the incident.
This disturbing event follows a brief halt in the game, during which multiple objects were tossed onto the ice from the stands. The club expressed its strong disapproval, stating, “Such behavior not only disrupts the flow of the game and tarnishes the sport but also poses a serious risk to player safety.”
Alongside Sgarbossa, Lugano features other players with NHL experience, including Rasmus Kupari and Brendan Perlini, highlighting the high caliber of talent participating in the Swiss league.
As this incident continues to unfold, it serves as a troubling reminder of the impacts of unsportsmanlike conduct within the arena.