Martinek injured at hockey worlds, hospitalized

By foxsports
Published

New York Islanders defenseman Radek Martinek is in the hospital with an injury to his spine and a concussion following a hit to the head during the Czech Republic's 4-2 win at the world hockey championship.

Martinek was carried off on a stretcher Saturday after being struck by Latvia defenseman Arturs Kulda at 14:40 of the first period. Kulda was penalized for the hit.

Team doctor Radomir Holibka told Czech public television that Martinek was in stable condition at a Bratislava hospital. Holibka said Martinek is unlikely to play again in the tournament.

The oft-injured Martinek is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. His return to the Islanders was already questionable. Martinek had three goals and 16 points in 64 games with New York last season.