The Dallas Stars are going to be without defenseman Stephane Robidas for a while after he suffered a leg fracture in Friday’s 2-1 shootout loss to the Chicago Blackhawks at American Airlines Center.

Robidas was injured in the second period when he went down while defending Chicago’s Jonathan Toews and then slammed into the end boards.

“It didn’t look good,” said Stars coach Lindy Ruff.

“It was heartbreaking. He is the one guy who never stays down,” said Stars goaltender Kari Lehtonen. “I saw his face and knew something really went bad. It was tough to play the rest of the second period. … It kind of sucks right now. He’ll work hard and come back. He’s a huge part of this team.”

Robidas has five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-seven rating in 24 games this season. His four goals are tied with Brenden Dillon for the team lead among defenseman. His plus-seven rating is third highest on the team. His 19:54 of ice time per game ranks third as well.

“It’s really tough,” said Stars captain Jamie Benn. “We hope he is alright. He’s a big part of this team, a big part of the backend and a pretty big leader.”

Robidas, who was taken off the ice on a stretcher, was then taken to UT Southwestern Medical Center. How long he’ll be out is still to be determined.