Slavin won't return to Game 4 after thunderous hit from Bennett

Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin exited Game 4 against the Florida Panthers in the first period after a huge hit from Sam Bennett behind the net.

Slavin was in clear distress before being helped to the dressing room by Hurricanes staff.

Jaccob Slavin has gone to the dressing room following a heavy hit from Sam Bennett. pic.twitter.com/4wDtPENPSy

- Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 25, 2023

The play wasn't penalized. Slavin was eventually ruled out for the remainder of the contest with an upper-body injury.

Slavin has been an integral piece of Carolina's playoff run. The 29-year-old entered Wednesday's must-win contest with six points in 14 games while leading all Hurricanes blue-liners in ice time and goal differential.

Bennett has been a constant physical presence for Florida this spring, ranking fourth in the playoffs with 58 hits while chipping in four goals and seven assists.

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