Joe Pavelski gives emotional interview Tanner Kero injury
(Screenshot/ Bally Sports South)

Hockey is truly a brotherhood.

Dallas Stars forward Joe Pavelski got emotional Saturday night talking about a horrible injury to teammate Tanner Kero. The incident occured Saturday in a game between Dallas and Chicago.

Kero was stretchered off the ice in the first period after a blindside hit from Blackhawks’ forward Brett Connolly. There was a lengthy delay in the game as both teams came onto the ice to support Kero.

Connolly received a five-minute major penalty and was ejected from the game. The Stars would go on to win 4-3 in overtime. Pavelski scored two goals and had two assists. He was named First Star of the Game.

Pavelski spoke with reporters after the game in his media availability. Instead of talking about his four points and the Stars win, Pavelski focused on his teammate Kero.

Pavelski got emotional talking about the injury to Kero. The veteran forward wiped away tears explaining how it gave him flashbacks to the 2019 Playoffs. Pavelski hit his head on the ice in a scary incident when he was playing for the San Jose Sharks.

“It’s terrible”, Pavelski said fighting backs tears. “I’ve been there before. My teammates rallied around me that night. You know there’s flashbacks there.”

Pavelski gave praise to Kero and his qualities as a teammate.

“Tanner is awesome. He’s soft-spoken. Makes sure he works hard. Doesn’t miss a day.”

“That win is definitely for him”, added Pavelski.

Here’s video of Pavelski speaking on Kero. It’s tough to watch:

The Stars released an update saying Kero is “conscious, alert and responsive. He’ll be transported to the hospital for precautionary measures and evaluation.”

It’s always great to see the human side of athletes in interviews. Pavelski clearly cares about his injured teammate and can relate to him in a way many other NHL players can’t. Props to him for speaking his mind to the media.

Please keep Tanner Kero and his family in your thoughts today.