Boston Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron was hospitalized after being knocked unconscious when he was hit from behind into the boards by Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Randy Jones during the first period of Saturday’s game at the TD Banknorth Garden. The hit came with just under four minutes to play in the period. Jones was assessed a five-minute major penalty for boarding and a game misconduct.

Bergeron, 22, was taken off the ice on a stretcher; doctors were forced to cut off his jersey and shoulder equipment as they worked on him. He was transported to Mass General Hospital, where he is being evaluated by doctors.

“Words really can't express the way that I feel right now,” Jones said in a statement issued by the Flyers. “I am very apologetic for the hit and what I did. It was not intentional. It is something that I have never done before and it is not part of my character. I am extremely sorry. I hope he does OK and everything works out for him. I wish him nothing but the best in his recovery.”

Stay tuned to NHL.com for the latest details on Bergeron’s condition.