Rob Ray's Resilience: Sabres Broadcaster Shrugs Off Midgame Puck to the Head

It was just another day in the life of Rob Ray, the former NHL enforcer turned fearless broadcaster for the Buffalo Sabres. During a Saturday afternoon matchup against the visiting New York Rangers, Ray experienced a moment that would have sidelined most commentators – a rogue puck struck him squarely in the face, opening a gash above his left eye.

Despite the impact, Ray’s reaction was as gritty as his playing days. A hot mic captured his immediate, expletive-laden response, but he didn’t miss a beat. Sabres’ medical staff quickly attended to him, ensuring the puck hadn’t damaged his eye. Remarkably, Ray continued his broadcast duties before seeking stitches post-game.

Ray’s resilience is no surprise to hockey fans. With a career spanning 14 years as a Sabres enforcer, he holds the team record for most penalty minutes (3,189) and ranks sixth in NHL history (3,207). His fighting style was so unique that it led to the creation of the “Rob Ray Rule”: players who remove their jerseys during a fight face a misconduct penalty.

Transitioning from the ice to the broadcasting booth in 2012, Ray has brought the same tenacity to his commentary. While some might consider donning a helmet after such an incident, Ray’s reaction suggests he’ll keep doing what he does best – calling the game with the same toughness that defined his playing career.

Rob Ray’s story is a testament to the unyielding spirit of hockey, both on and off the ice.