Islanders RW Hunter leaves game

Dec 30, 2008 - 3:19 AM NEW YORK (Ticker) -- New York Islanders right wing Trent Hunter left Monday's 5-4 loss to the New York Rangers in the third period after absorbing a check along the boards by Ryan Callahan.

Hunter stayed on the ice in obvious pain and a stretcher was initially called to assist him. The 28-year-old was able to skate off under his own power and retreated to the locker room.

He did not return.

"Right off the bat, I couldn't breathe," Hunter said. "I think I was winded pretty good and just fighting to get my breath. I think that's obviously scary.

"I'm sure I'm going to be pretty sore tomorrow. But I haven't had a chance to take a look at it on the tape yet. I'll probably be a little sore tomorrow."