Martin Havlat is no stranger to injury. He’s probably been robbed of what should have been a brilliant career due to his inability to stay in the lineup. It may just be that Havlat has bad luck as he went down once again in just his fourth game with the New Jersey Devils.

The veteran forward was severely cut after a hit from Washington Capitals forward Jason Chimera. The hit itself was more awkward than dangerous, but it led to Havlat’s face colliding with the referee behind the net. Havlat immediately went down in a heap and began bleeding profusely.

WARNING: Video not for those squeamish at the sight of blood. There is quite a bit.

Rich Chere of NJ.com provided this update on Havlat after the game:

Devils winger Martin Havlat suffered severe cuts to his nose and the area above his mouth, requiring a significant number of stitches and suggesting that the injury will keep him out of action for a longer period than hoped.

Havlat, who slammed face-first into referee Darcy Burchell when pushed by Washington's Jason Chimera late in the second period Thursday night, did not leave the visitors' dressing room in Verizon Center until an hour after the game ended.

But the more worrisome cut was a long, deep gash below his nose that evidently went completely through the skin. It appeared that Havlat's visor may have caused the worst of the injury by slicing into his face just below his nose.

That hurts just to read.

Havlat had been off to a good start with his new club after getting bought out by the San Jose Sharks in the offseason. The 33-year-old Czech had a goal and two assists while averaging 11:44 through his first four games.

Though getting back to health will be his priority now, Havlat is sure to be disappointed he’ll miss the Devils’ next game, which is against the Sharks Saturday.