What happened to Sean Kuraly? Why did Columbus Blue Jackets forward exit game against Leafs?

Sean Kuraly left the ice late in the first period of the Blue Jackets vs Maple Leafs game with a concerning injury. Kuraly was struck in the stomach by an errant puck, leaving him appearing confused and in distress.

The team announced Sean Kuraly had suffered an abdominal injury. The team added that the forward was taken to the Grant Medical Center for further evaluation.

On Sunday morning, the Columbus Blue Jackets said Sean Kuraly was further evaluated and tests were performed which were negative.

The impact of the hit left Kuraly visibly dazed as he struggled to regain his composure. However, the unfortunate turn of events didn't end there for the Blue Jackets forward. As the paramedics rushed to attend to Kuraly, it became evident that the injury was serious enough for him to leave the game immediately. Leaving the ice, he hunched down, illustrating the severity of the situation.

The image of the player collapsing into the tunnel behind the Blue Jackets bench sent shockwaves through the arena. The remaining seconds of the period were added to the second as both teams headed towards the locker rooms, leaving a somber atmosphere.

Update provided by Columbus Blue Jackets regarding Sean Kuraly's condition

An update from the Blue Jackets' Twitter account later in the night confirmed Sean Kuraly's situation. The Blue Jackets said that medical personnel were alerted as a precaution and that Kuraly was being evaluated at the arena.

Another update was given by the Columbus Blue Jackets' Bally Sports affiliate that the paramedic response to Kuraly's injury was just a precaution and that he is in a safe condition.

The Blue Jackets tied up the game just seconds into the second period with a goal from Justin Danforth, bringing the crowd at Nationwide Arena back into a frenzy. The Maple Leafs had scored in the early first period with a goal from Auston Matthews.