“It was more whiplash than anything,” Smith said. “But, he did get me in the shoulder, and it was the same shoulder. I came back, so it wasn’t too bad, but – the puck wasn’t even around, so that was what was interesting about the whole thing.”

Smith was sore but is expected to play tonight against the Sharks.

“It is a little frustrating, in my situation especially,” said the 40-year-old veteran, who had been in world class form. “Coming from a big injury, rehabbing and getting ready, starting to feel good and actually getting playing time — and now this happens.

“It’s not too serious, but it needs to be taken care of. It’s just really annoying, that’s what it is.”