Islanders defenseman Brendan Witt knows how to brace himself for an on-ice hit. Presumably, that professional National Hockey League training helped him literally walk away from being hit by an SUV:

Witt was crossing Arch Street [in Philadelphia] to get a cup of coffee when a gold Yukon truck made an illegal turn and hit the 34-year-old. Newsday says Witt tried to jump on the hood of the vehicle before being thrown to the ground as he was struck.

“I’m okay,” Witt told the crowd as he dusted himself off, according to Newsday. “I’ve got to go play some hockey. I’m a hockey player. I’m okay. No big deal.”

And indeed, Witt played tonight, despite his automotive run-in. Unfortunately, he and his New York teammates got thumped 6-2 by the Flyers.

Witt did come out of the game relatively unscathed: Two hits and an even plus/minus. So no ill effects. Still, I can’t believe the team didn’t insist on giving him a check-up to ensure no damage. Maybe if he has a future encounter with a tractor-trailer, Witt will take the night off…