Golden Knights' Howden in stable condition after being stretchered off ice

Vegas Golden Knights centre Brett Howden exited the game on a stretcher on Thursday night after he went head-first into the boards following a check by Filip Forsberg of the Nashville Predators.

The play occurred during the first period.

The 23-year-old forward was battling for the puck with Forsberg before losing his balance and getting what appeared to be inadvertently shoved into the boards headfirst.

There was no penalty on the play.

``I thought liberty was taken. He was in a vulnerable position and I thought he got driven into the boards from behind in a dangerous spot,'' Vegas coach Peter DeBoer said. ``My initial concern was obviously about our player. It was a really dangerous hit, and anytime you see someone get stretchered off your concern is there.''

The Golden Knights announced that Howden was conscious and stable after the injury.

Medical personnel brought a stretcher onto the ice and tended to Howden, who appeared responsive and raised one of his arms as he was taken off the playing surface after a nine-minute delay.

After the game, DeBoer said Howden has full movement and he'll know more Friday.

Nashville coach John Hynes and captain Roman Josi opened their postgame news conference commenting on the situation.

``On behalf of us Predators players and everyone else, we just want to wish Brett all the best,'' Josi said. ``Scary incident there and everyone was a little shocked, but we've heard he's in stable condition and hopefully his recovery goes well. Just want to wish you all the best.''

Added Hynes: ``I'd just like to echo Roman's statements regarding Brett Howden. On behalf of the Nashville Predators, it's nice to hear he's in stable condition and doing well. We support him and wish him all the best.''