Pohl suffered the injury during the second period of Sunday's playoff game against Minnesota State after he was hit by Mavericks forward Jason Wiley. Wiley received a five-minute major penalty and a game disqualification, although Pohl's helmet came off before his head hit the boards and the ice.
During today's Final Five media conference call, both Gophers coach Don Lucia and WCHA commissioner Bruce McLeod addressed Pohl's condition and the play. Neither thought Wiley intended to injure Pohl with the hit.
Said Lucia: "I don't think there was any ill will on the part of the Mankato player. Tom was in a vulnerable position. I do think the major cause of the injury is because his helmet came off. He was unconscious when he hit the ice. It is very unfortunate and it was a very scary situation and I'm glad he's in good medical care right now."
Said McLeod: "(Wiley) feels just terrible about the situation. You can see by the tape there was no maliciousness or degree of intent at all. We feel for everybody that's been involved in this situation. It's been a tough situation for everybody."
Neither Wiley nor MSU coach Troy Jutting could be reached for comment Monday or Tuesday. The Mavericks had the day off but are scheduled to practice Wednesday afternoon.
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