Connor McDavid Suspended Two Games

The Department of Player Safety has made their ruling, and one of the game’s best players will have to sit out. Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid has been issued a two-game suspension for his high check last night on New York Islanders defenseman Nick Leddy. As the accompanying video explains:

It is important to note that both factors of the illegal check to the head rule are met on this hit. First, the head is the main point of contact. While McDavid makes some contact with Leddy’s far shoulder, the brunt of the impact of this hit is delivered by McDavid’s shoulder to Leddy’s head. Second, the head contact on this play is avoidable. While Leddy is making a play on the puck as McDavid approaches, he does not materially change the position of his head or body in a way that significantly contributes to the head being the main point of contact. 

Even without being a repeat offender of any kind, the two-game suspension will cost McDavid more than $134K. It will also put a target on him for any actions in the future that may require supplementary discipline. While McDavid obviously already draws plenty of attention, the league will now keep a closer eye on his physical play and could assess stiffer penalties in the future.

The Oilers play the Anaheim Ducks tomorrow in a crucial game for the team’s playoff chances, and the Nashville Predators on Monday in another Western Conference matchup. McDavid will be able to return to the lineup for Wednesday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.