NHL makes official decision on Sam Bennett sucker punching Marchand
The hockey world is abuzz over Sam Bennett's controversial hit on Brad Marchand, sparking debate about whether it was a defensive reaction or a deliberate attack.
As video footage of the incident spreads, it shows Bennett connecting with Marchand's face just as Marchand seemed to be preparing to deliver a heavy hit himself, suggesting Bennett might have been trying to protect himself.
This incident has reignited concerns about the inconsistency of NHL player safety decisions, which continue to confuse fans and players about the standards for suspensions.
Despite the contentious nature of the hit, David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period reports that the NHL will not take any supplemental discipline against Bennett.
No supplementary discipline for Bennett's "punch" or Ryan's "stick tap"... both something the refs could/did deal with. All is fair in love and playoffs, it appears.
This decision, especially with Marchand potentially missing upcoming playoff games, is sure to stir further debate about fairness and player safety in the league.
As seen on Bladeofsteel
NHL reaches decision on Sam Bennett's 'sucker punch' on Brad Marchand
POLL |
Do you think the NHL made the right decision on Bennetts sucker punch? |
Yes | 29 | 5.8 % |
No | 471 | 94.2 % |
List of polls |
|
5 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Bruins star David Pastrnak absolutely embarrassed himself by wiping out on a breakaway |
|
6 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Mark Kastelic tosses Luke Schenn around in a massive fight off the face-off |
|
8 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery confirms the Bruins starting goaltender moments before game vs Predators |
|
10 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery makes 6-foot-5 210 LBS forward Justin Brazeau a healthy scratch |
|
13 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Montgomery hits the panic button and changes the Bruins entire top-nine moments before game vs Predators |
|
14 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds Ex-Bruins prospect Adam Mechura terminated his contract with the Bruins organization |
|
16 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Suspension news changes Boston Bruins lineup vs Predators on Tuesday |
|
17 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds NHL podcaster, Joe Yerdon took a shot at Bruins Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand |
Previously on Bruins Insider