Washington Capitals right wing Tom Wilson (43) and Carolina Hurricanes center Logan Stankoven (22) collide during the third period of an NHL hockey game, Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson came under the spotlight of the NHL as a result of making a heavy strike on Carolina Hurricanes forward Logan Stankoven during the Saturday game. The crash instantly made it one of the most talked-about moments of the game, with fans, commentators, and the two teams themselves reacting vehemently to the series of events that were re-aired on television and online.The force in the play was not only noticed, but also the contact of the heads that seemed to be made upon impact. As the bench of the Hurricanes showed obvious anger, and the referees were refusing to punish the hit as it happened, the scene soon became a large NHL updates headline, reminding everyone of whether Wilson would be suspended or not.
Tom Wilson was not penalized due to the strike of Logan Stankoven in the Capitals-Hurricanes match
The NHL Department of Player Safety has now delivered its verdict: Tom Wilson is not going to receive further punishment for the hit on Logan Stankoven. The decision implies that no suspension will take place and no further punishment other than what is inflicted in the game as such.Reports said that the league watched the play and concluded that the contact was not to the extent that would warrant extra discipline. In the case of the Washington Capitals, the move will be regarded as a relief, particularly since Wilson is a major physical presence in the team.The incident has now provided an additional point of contention between the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes, and it will also be a point of discussion in any NHL news item related to this game. This decision may be remembered as relationship fuel with already playoff-like intensity the next time these two teams are involved.