Maple Leafs’ John Tavares exits vs. Sabres after collision

The Toronto Maple Leafs centre exited early in the third period against the Buffalo Sabres after an awkward collision with Josh Norris.

Norris collided with Tavares' lower body when he wasn't expecting it, and he fell to the ice in discomfort. Tavares remained on the ice in visible pain before a trainer came out to assist him to the dressing room.

Tavares had two goals and three assists through six games entering Thursday. He also missed a contest earlier this week due to the birth of his son.

The 36-year-old has been mostly healthy through his Maple Leafs tenure. He's missed just 14 games total over the past five seasons and played in all 82 last season.