Ovechkin Suspension
Ovechkin Suspension
The Washington Capitol team takes a hit with the Ovechkin suspension. The hit Alex Ovechkin gave to Chicago Blackhawks Brian Campbell from behind into the backboards resulted in a broken clavicle and at least one broken rib. Campbell may miss the rest of the season because of the injuries. Ovechkin is suspended for at least two games and monetary penalties as well.
NHL league officials stand behind the two game suspension and the message loud and clear resonates with the Ovechkin suspension that players should think twice about unnecessary hits. This is the second suspension for Alex Ovechkin, a two time Hart trophy winner who says he is disappointed with the decision. Earlier in the season, Ovechkin was ejected from a Sabres game for a boarding hit to Patrick Kaleta. In the same week Carolina Hurricane Tim Gleason fell victim to a knee on knee hit, this resulted in a 2 game suspension. The NHL inconsistent doling out of suspensions, and interpretation of the rules and regulations when only when something terrible happens is suspect.
What will the two game Ovechkin suspension mean to the Washington Capitols? With the Capitols still at the top of the NHL Eastern division, they will miss their powerhouse Left Wing. Alex Ovechkin will be ready to hit the boards again soon enough. Perhaps the NHL can work on their consistency in penalties; so all players will know what to expect if certain infractions happen, not just when a fellow player is injured. Was it too severe or not severe enough? The jury is still out, hopefully soon the NHL Officials will get it together to structure some form of consistent rulings for all players so the game can continue on an even playing field.
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