NHL Department of Player Safety Makes a Controversial Decision on Drew Helleson's Dirty Knee

The Calgary Flames began their southern California road swing Tuesday night against the Anaheim Ducks with mothers of the players in attendance to cheer them on.

The contest fell on the Flames' annual Moms' trip, but the night took a grim turn when one of their players went down with a serious injury.

During the second period, while the Flames were leading 1-0, Connor Zary suffered a devastating injury after a knee-on-knee collision with Drew Helleson. Connor Zary's leg bent unnaturally as he had to be helped off the ice in obvious pain.

Drew Helleson was given a five-minute major penalty and game misconduct for the hit, and Zary's teammate Jakob Pelletier received a two-minute roughing penalty for coming to his defense.

The somber mood extended to the stands, where Zary's mother, part of the Moms' trip, watched the distressing scene unfold. She was later absent from the suite as the other mothers celebrated Nazem Kadri's goal just minutes after the incident.

It was clear Zary would not return to the contest and, considering the type of injury it was, might be out for some time.

Tough luck for Zary, who has been having a great season, posting 10 goals and 12 assists for 22 points in 39 games heading into Tuesday.

For those wondering whether Helleson would face any supplemental discipline for the play, NHL insider Frank Seravalli confirmed that no further punishment would be taken on him, which is sure to anger Flames fans.

There is also no medical update on Zary yet either, and despite the video of the injury looking like it is very serious, we're hoping for a full and speedy recovery.