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You have to call things as they are: you don’t see this every day, especially with the strict rules now in place in Quebec junior hockey.
Montreal Canadiens goaltending prospect Arseni Radkov has been handed a five-game suspension after drawing attention in a rather unusual way.
The young Saint John Sea Dogs goaltender decided to drop the gloves Friday against Owen Bresson of the Halifax Mooseheads.
Needless to say, the atmosphere ramped up quickly in New Brunswick, but the league did not find it amusing at all.
Since the weekend, the QMJHL has ruled firmly with a five-game suspension, including two games in the playoffs.
Radkov and his opponent were both ejected immediately after an altercation officials deemed intense during the second period.
The rule against fighting is now very strict, and both netminders paid a heavy price.
“Goaltenders Owen Bresson and Arseni Radkov have been suspended for five games following their fight on Friday. Both will therefore miss the start of the playoffs.”
– Stephane Leroux
The referees did not even issue an instigator penalty, considering that both players were willing participants in the incident.
Statistically, the Canadiens’ third-round pick in 2025 is having a rather eventful season.
In 36 games played in junior, he has a record of 17 wins and 14 losses.
We are talking about a young man who also experienced a trade this year, moving from the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada to the Sea Dogs.
The Belarusian goaltender currently holds a 3.45 goals-against average and a .889 save percentage.
A fiery temperament for the future of the Canadiens
This kind of outburst shows the kid has character, even if it will cost him dearly at the start of the playoffs.
Montreal Canadiens fans like to see passion, but discipline remains the key to reaching the professional level.
Despite this disciplinary setback, Radkov remains an intriguing prospect to watch within the organization.
However, he will need to channel his energy to help his club when he returns to play after his suspension.
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Montreal Canadiens prospect Arseni Radkov suspended 5 games after goalie fight
Is a 5-game suspension for a goalie fight too severe?