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NHL Player Safety’s decision on Brad Marchand’s controversial hit has sent criticism throughout social media..
Florida Panthers winger Brad Marchand was penalized during the Panthers game Tuesday against the Montreal Canadiens after an incident with Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson.
In overtime of the game, Marchand caught Matheson with a head shot, with Marchand’s elbow catching Matheson in the head along the boards, called a two-minute minor penalty by the officials.
In what started as a tribute for Marchand’s 1000th career NHL point, he found himself on the end of a controversial play that faced criticism as an unnecessary hit, especially given that the play happened during overtime.
Habs fans were quickly critical of the hit, with some initial pessimism that there would be any action from player safety over the incident, despite fan views that the play was suspension-worthy:
NHL Player Safety makes their decision on Brad Marchand
If Montreal Canadiens fans were doubtful of the idea that Brad Marchand would face further punishment by the league for the Matheson hit, their concerns were found correct.
According to Sportsnet Hockey insider Elliotte Friedman, there will be no hearing for Brad Marchand, meaning there will not be a suspension for Marchand.
The play united Canadiens and Leafs fans, with Habs fans upset at the lack of a suspension for Marchand, and Leafs fans believing the play being done by a Leaf would warrant a suspension if wearing a Toronto jersey.
Especially in the wake of a Bobby McMann suspension for actions arguably less than Marchand’s, Leafs fans are right to feel a bit perplexed at the decision.
Analysts criticized the decision as confusing, asking for further clarity to explain why a hit to the head wasn’t a suspension-worthy incident.
Already one of the most controversial aspects of the NHL, George Parros and Player Safety has found itself in the middle of another decision that has brought criticism from across the spectrum of the league.
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NHL Player Safety’s decision on Brad Marchand draws reaction around the league
Should Marchand have been suspended for the hit on Matheson?