Avalanche first round draft pick Joey Hishon returns after 2 year concussion

Joey Hishon was drafted by the Avalanche in the first round of the 2010 NHL draft, shortly before sustaining this malicious hit in the Memorial Cup by now-NHL defenseman Brayden McNabb.  Many thought Hishon’s concussion would end his hockey career, but he spent the past two years rehabilitating and has finally been cleared to play again.

Brayden McNabb was ejected from the playoff game — Owen Sound Attack, Hishon’s team, had a three goal lead at the time.  McNabb received a one game suspension.  Looking at the hit, we can see that not only did McNabb go out his way for the open ice hit, but he lead with his elbow, which is extremely illegal.  Hishon never even stood a chance to of avoiding the hit.

Hishon has played his past two games with the Lake Erie Monsters, and managed a shootout winning goal over the Grand Rapid Griffins, the Red Wings Affiliate.  We will continue to follow his progress in the American Hockey League.