Pittsburgh Penguins expected to face suspension after illegal check to the head of Cale Makar

The Colorado Avalanche have battled injuries season long. So when Cale Makar hit the ice clutching his head, the Avalanche bench immediately held their breath.

The play occured on the 3rd period of tonight's game. As Makar looks to play the puck, Jeff Carter comes across the ice and delivers a shoulder directly to the head of Makar. The blow sends Makar to the ice, but none of the on ice officials felt this was worthy of a penalty.


The hit from Carter appears to fall under both the categories of blindside and illegal checks to the head. It is very likely that the NHL Department of Player Safety takes a look at this hit, if for no other reason than it was against Makar.


Makar was forced to leave the game and undergo concussion testing, but was able to return to the game.