Major Suspension Incoming for Hurricanes Player After One of the Most Dangerous Plays of the Season

With time expiring in the Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals game, the Hurricanes had a chance to steal a crucial game.

The win over Washington had the impact of securing a 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs playoff spot, but the game was not completed without the complete dismissal of fireworks.

The third period then turned into an all-out brawl, with the two teams racking up a total of 142 minutes in penalties. There were various fighting majors, roughing penalties, and game misconducts issued as tempers flared.

One of the final fights involved Hurricanes defenseman Jalen Chatfield and Capitals forward Connor McMichael. On initial observation, Chatfield appeared to have the advantage over McMichael, drilling him to the ice.

But closer inspection revealed Chatfield's use of a dirty move to deposit McMichael onto the ice.

By leading McMichael on a merry-go-round around the rink, Chatfield used his left blade to jam for extra grip, depositing McMichael onto the ice with extra force.

Due to this, McMichael suffered a dangerous head smash and narrowly escaped a possibly more crippling injury.

Although combat is permitted and a part of accepted NHL culture, there are repercussions for too many moves.

Depending on the nature of Chatfield's takedown, it would not be surprising if the NHL Department of Player Safety stepped in and issued further punishment, such as a lengthy suspension.

Combined, the Hurricanes and Capitals accumulated 114 minutes of penalties during the final seven minutes of action. Chatfield and McMichael both had fighting majors and game misconducts, which ended a scorching finish to a hotly contested game.