The NHL has fined two more players for incidents from yesterday’s action, deciding not to hand out suspensions. Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Ryan McDonagh has been fined $5,000, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for his cross-check on Florida Panthers forward Mason Marchment. His teammate Pat Maroon has been fined $3,879,31, the maximum allowable for his salary level, for unsportsmanlike conduct at the end of last night’s game.
In McDonagh’s case, the incident occurred partway through the first period when the game was 1-0 for the Lightning. The two players had been battling all shift, but as Marchment approached McDonagh near the benches, the Tampa Bay defenseman raised his stick and delivered a cross-check to the head. McDonagh was given a two-minute penalty for roughing on the play and Marchment did not suffer a major injury.
For Maroon, there were just under 15 seconds left in the game and the score was out of reach, but the Tampa Bay forward engaged with Florida forward Noel Acciari. Maroon took just 12 faceoffs this season, but lined up as a center for the center ice draw and pushed forward with his stick extended. The event resulted in a scrum between several players, penalties to both teams, and a misconduct for Maroon.
Poor officiating the entire series has caused the players to take matters into their own hands. Panthers have been particularly dirty and have gotten away with much of it. Bolts need to focus on winning and next season they can pay their players back.
Seems odd, and I risk saying this sounding like a broken record, that two lightning players fined, and not even a reprimand for Duclair’s slash. Talk about inconsistency with DOPS. As much as Kadri is dirty I totally see why he’s appealing his suspension. There’s no real system for discipline just whatever Parros and co. Are feeling that day. Who knows maybe Parros stocks are doing well that day “ahh you’re right Nazem, wasn’t that bad of a headshot..2 games…”.
That was all Kucherov wanting to exit early, he’s stayed down lots in his career, if that game was close he would 100% of been up and on the PP.
You win imbecile comment of the day, well done. DuClair chopped the back of his knee like cord wood. You might feel differently if it were Pasternak.