NHL Disrespects The Boston Bruins In Recent Announcement
The NHL's Department of Player Safety has rendered its verdict on the forceful slash by Brendan Smith of the New Jersey Devils against the Philadelphia Flyers' Travis Konecny.
The incident unfolded late in the third period following a puck dump on a penalty kill by Philadelphia, prompting both teams to make their way for a live change.
Amidst the exchange, Konecny, expressing his discontent, delivered a robust crosscheck to Smith. In response, Smith firmly seized his own stick with both hands, delivering a forceful swing at Konecny, making contact with his chest.
The Department of Player Safety has determined that the slash warrants a two-game suspension for Smith.
In justifying its decision, the DoPS stated that "this was not a hockey play" and emphasized that Smith was in complete control of his stick and actions at the time.
The department also acknowledged that Konecny's actions resulted in a fine but underlined that it in no way justifies Smith's reaction. Notably, Smith's disciplinary record is relatively clean, with his only other suspension dating back to 2011.
The decision by the Department of Player Safety comes against the backdrop of recent events involving the Boston Bruins. Not long ago, Jacob Trouba of the New York Rangers hit Trent Frederic of the Bruins in the face with his stick.
However, Trouba received only a fine for this incident, despite the potentially more dangerous nature of getting struck in the face with a stick compared to the slash delivered by Smith.
This has raised concerns among Bruins fans and observers, questioning the consistency and fairness of the DoPS decisions.
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