Every so often NHL fans, and players, are reminded just how dangerous their sport can be with brutal injuries and near misses (usually involving extremely sharp skates) a recurring theme in the game so many love.

Vancouver Canucks forward Alex Burrows was the unfortunate victim of the latest meeting between razor sharp skate and skin during his team's recent contest with the Detroit Red Wings.

Close call

Involved in a goal mouth melee, Burrows was busy attempting to defend his goal from a Red Wings onslaught when he tripped in front of the net. Unfortunately for him he dragged down opponent Johan Franzen in the process and was struck on the cheek by the latter's flailing skate in a scary collision.

The collision was clearly accidental with the Detroit forward immediately checking on Franzen after realizing what had happened. Burrows though was evidently shook up as he clutched his cheek to assess the damage.

You can check out the dangerous collision via THIS LINK.

As you might expect, he was taken off the ice to be checked on my medical staff with the game mid-way through the second period.

Made of stronger stuff

As we all know though, NHL players are cut from a different cloth. So despite having his face mask to thank for avoiding serious damage it was no surprise to see Burrows return to the action in the third quarter. Complete with a reported seven stitches to his cheek.

Burrows is a controversial figure in the NHL but even his worst enemies wouldn't wish a serious injury upon him.

No luck

Unfortunately for Burrows his return did not help the Canucks in their quest to register a win on Sunday night. The Red Wings secured a 5-3 win over Vancouver to move to a 14-5-5 record.

The Canucks meanwhile sit on a 16-7-1 record as they prepare to face the Washington Capitals on Wednesday in what will be game three of a seven game road trip.