Rookie Igor Chernyshov knocked out cold 30 seconds into the game!

A very unfortunate situation has unfolded in Montreal, one that has left San Jose Sharks rookie forward Igor Chernyshov in pretty rough shape.

Chernyshov and the Sharks faced off against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on Saturday night but it would be mere seconds into the very first period that disaster would strike for the youngster.

Chernyshov was skating along the boards when he was bumped by veteran Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson, a bump that would knock Chernyshov off balance in awkward fashion. The Sharks forward would spin around and fall at an awkward angle before unfortunately slamming his face into the ice in terrible fashion.

It was clear that Chernyshov was knocked out, at least briefly, as he continued to slide down the ice face first without protecting himself. Much to his credit he would try to get back to his feet before immediately falling back down to the ice, clearly badly shaken up by the fall.

Chernyshov would once again rise up to his feet and although he would be unableto maintain his balance, this time his teammates rushed to his aid and quickly helped him off the ice. As Chernyshov was being led off the ice it was clear his face had been busted open, although the extent of the damage was hidden by a towel covering his face.

Here is a look at the replay:

Hopefully Chernyshov makes a full and speedy recovery.