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This would be a double whammy.

The Calgary Flames lost a crucial contest, unable to dig themselves out of an early hole in Sunday’s 5-2 defeat to the New York Islanders at the Saddledome.

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The fear is they might have also lost a key piece to injury.

Flames sparkplug Matthew Tkachuk made an early exit after an awkward spill into the boards in Sunday’s third period, appearing to hit his head as he tumbled.

There was no post-game update on the health of the 20-year-old left-winger, who needed attention from the training staff on the ice before slowly climbing back to his feet and heading straight to the locker-room.

“We know how tough a kid he is. There have been instances this year where he’s done similar things, and he always seems to bounce right back up after,” said Flames netminder Mike Smith. “So when you see him that slowly getting up, you’re obviously concerned.

“He’s been a big part of our team this year and a guy that is really hard to replace. Obviously, we know what kind of player he is and the energy he brings, so hopefully it’s nothing serious.”