Juraj Slafkovsky is continuing to learn new lessons everyday as an NHL rookie. This week's lesson is don't hit an opposing team's player from behind. In last nights 3-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings, Slafkovsky was ejected for hitting from behind. Detroit forward Matt Luff was trying to control the puck in the neutral zone by the side boards. With all his attention focused on a bouncing puck his back was towards Slafkovsky. Juraj then hit Luff from behind as he went face first into the boards. Luff remained on the ice in discomfort and bleeding from his face. Meanwhile, a crowd of Detroit Red Wings came to his defense. After a brief scrum, Luff left the ice and went immediately to the dressing room. Poor Matt Luff. He took a slap in the face against Minnesota and now this.
The play was reviewed by the referees, and it was determined that Slafkovsky received a five-minute major and a game misconduct. This was the right call by the referees. Slofkovsky has to learn not to hit from behind it's dangerous and he did so late in the game with the scored tied at two. The Canadiens were able to kill off the penalty and win the game.
The discipline might not end for Slafkovsky either. He is scheduled to have a hearing with the NHL Player Safety Committee today. It would not be surprising to hear that he has a fine to pay or is suspended for his actions. The Canadiens rookie has certainly learned some lessons in the early stages of his NHL career. Let's hope he can learn from his mistake so he doesn't injury anyone else and so he doesn't make his team shorthanded. https://twitter.com/NHLPlayerSafety/status/1590373564079042560?s=20&t=Mj_E7tmkRUiabcQxbCl3Iw
It is now being reported that Luff will require surgery to repair the injury after the hit. This is expected to keep Luff out 10-12 weeks.
POLL | ||
9 NOVEMBRE | 111 ANSWERS George Parros announces hearing for one player after dangerous hit last night that caused a significant injury How many games should Slafkovsky be given for this hit? | ||
1 Game | 26 | 23.4 % |
2 Games | 20 | 18 % |
3 Games | 24 | 21.6 % |
4+ Games | 41 | 36.9 % |
List of polls |