Sharks' Igor Chernyshov Suffers Head Injury After Scary Hit

Chernyshov avoided the worst and only sustained a concussion after a collision with the Canadiens' Mike Matheson.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 9:04pm

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In a scary scene during a game against the Montreal Canadiens, San Jose Sharks winger Igor Chernyshov sustained a head injury that resulted in him bleeding on the ice and being taken to the hospital. It has since been revealed that Chernyshov has avoided the worst possible outcome and has only suffered a concussion.

Why it matters

Head injuries are a major concern in the NHL, and this incident highlights the risks players face and the importance of proper medical evaluation and care. Chernyshov's injury also impacts the Sharks' lineup as they continue their playoff push.

The details

Chernyshov was injured after getting tangled up with Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson. He was bleeding from the head, had difficulty getting up, and had to be transported to the hospital for evaluation. Chernyshov has since been released from the hospital and has joined the Sharks for their trip to Ottawa, but he will miss the game against the Senators due to the concussion.

  • On March 14, Chernyshov sustained the head injury during the game against the Montreal Canadiens.
  • Chernyshov left the hospital and has since joined the Sharks to travel to Ottawa for their game on March 15.

The players

Igor Chernyshov

A 20-year-old winger for the San Jose Sharks who is in his first NHL season, having been selected by the team in the second round of the 2024 draft.

Mike Matheson

A defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens who was involved in the collision with Chernyshov.

Pavol Regenda

A left wing who will be playing in place of the injured Chernyshov against the Ottawa Senators.

Alexander Wennberg

A Sharks player who will also miss the game against the Senators due to an upper-body injury.

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What they’re saying

“It was really weird. I hope he's OK. I kind of left the play and kind of went the other way and made it all the way to the other zone before I realized he was even down. Then turned around and saw him kind of stumbling. Definitely pretty scary ... not something you want to see and hopefully he's OK.”

— Mike Matheson (si.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.