WASHINGTON — Flyers left wing Patrick Thoresen was taken to the hospital for tests after getting hit in the groin by a shot off Alex Ovechkin's stick during Philadelphia's 5-4 loss to Washington tonight.

"He's going to the hospital to get an ultrasound done on his testicles. It's bad enough they may have to remove one," Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said. "Right now, we're not sure how serious it is, but there's a chance he may need surgery."

Thoresen blocked Ovechkin's shot with about 6› minutes left in the game, then dropped to the ice, writhing in pain. Moments later, Washington scored to tie the game 4-4.

"Obviously, I'd have liked to see a whistle," Flyers coach John Stevens said.

Thoresen was helped off the ice and taken to the locker room.