Los Angeles Kings interim coach D.J. Smith avoided serious injury after a frightening incident during Game 2 against the Colorado Avalanche on April 21.

The game at Ball Arena in Denver saw a glass panel shatter behind the Kings’ bench in the second period. The moment stunned players and briefly halted play.

The incident followed a key penalty shot save by Avalanche goaltender Scott Wedgewood on Quinton Byfield. Avalanche fans celebrated loudly and repeatedly pounded the glass behind the Kings bench. The pressure caused the panel to sway and then collapse. Smith felt the glass pressing against his back before it broke apart.

MORE: Sidney Crosby makes desperate call as Penguins fall 3-0 to Flyers

Shards rained down on Smith, who quickly ducked to protect himself. He was hit multiple times as the glass fell onto his head and suit. Smith then walked to the locker room to remove debris and get checked. He returned to the bench shortly after, avoiding any major injury.

Officials paused the game for about 19 minutes as arena staff cleared the ice and replaced the glass.

Glass break incidents are not new in hockey, though this case stood out due to its location behind the bench. A similar moment occurred in 2025 involving an OHL coach, Dale Hunter, who also escaped harm.

The delay did not disrupt the game’s momentum. The Avalanche secured a 2-1 overtime win to take a 2-0 lead in the series.

Nicolas Roy scored the winner 7:44 into overtime, beating a defender and finding the net. Wedgewood finished with 24 saves, including the key penalty stop.

MORE: NHL playoffs kick off with intense fight as Jordan Staal takes on Brady Tkachuk

The Kings had taken a late lead through Artemi Panarin, but Gabriel Landeskog equalized for Colorado late in the third period. Despite strong defensive play and 34 saves from Anton Forsberg, Los Angeles fell short again.

Game 3 now shifts to Los Angeles, with the Kings needing a response to maintain control in the series.