Brad Marchand escapes ban for headshot to Canadiens' Mike Matheson

Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand will not receive a suspension for his elbow on Montreal Canadiens defenceman Mike Matheson.

The hit occurred in overtime of Tuesday’s game. The Canadiens stormed back from a 2-0 deficit to defeat the defending Stanley Cup champions 3-2. Marchand was charged with a minor roughing penalty on the play, which led to Nick Suzuki scoring the game-winner on the power play.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported earlier today Marchand will not have a hearing with the NHL’s department of player safety.

“I admit I’m surprised, I thought there would be for the contact to the head,” Friedman posted on X. He also wrote that the NHL likely felt it was enough to call a penalty on the ice, Marchand’s elbow was “low and tucked” and that Matheson was also low to the ice.

Marchand will be able to play in the Winter Classic on Friday, when the Panthers host the New York Rangers at LoanDepot Park in Miami.

The Canadiens play their next game Thursday at 7 p.m. in Raleigh against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Brad Marchand escapes ban for headshot to Canadiens’ Mike Matheson

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