BRATISLAVA, Slovakia -- Czech Republic defenceman Radek Martinek was taken to hospital with a spine injury and concussion after he was hit in the head during a 4-2 win over Latvia at the world ice hockey championship on Saturday.
Martinek, who plays for the New York Islanders, was carried off on a stretcher and taken to a Bratislava hospital.
Team doctor Radomir Holibka told Czech public television that Martinek was in a stabilized condition but due to the nature of his injuries it was unlikely he would continue in the tournament.
Martinek was hit by Latvia defenceman Arturs Kulda at 14:40 in the first period. Kulda was penalized.
