Detroit Red Wings defenseman Niklas Kronwall has received a 1-game suspension for his hit on Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov in Monday night’s game 6 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.
It was determined that the 34-year old Swedish defenseman made an illegal check to the head of the Lightning forward, who went to the Lightning dressing room and came back into the contest shortly after and played the remaining half of the game. No penalty or misconduct was given.
As the video shows, Kronwall drives through Kucherov, appearing to leaving his feet before the point of contact. The NHL reviewed that part extensively in the hearing today, coming up with the result that with the main point of contact being the head, the check was illegal regardless, resulting in a suspension.
The Department of Player Safety explained that this hit was different from other “Kronwallings” in the past, citing the feet leaving the ice.
Kronwall will not be eligible to play in game 7 Wednesday, but would be eligible to return in the possible second round series against the Montreal Canadiens.
Tweets about the hit:
Niklas Kronwall says “I thought it was a clean hit” on Kucherov — Helene St. James (@HeleneStJames) April 28, 2015
Cooper on Kronwall hit/potential discipline: “Kuch [Kucherov] is going to be fine. That’s all that really matters.”
— Katie Strang (@KatieStrangESPN) April 28, 2015
Kucherov on the hit: “It’s a hit. He made a hit. I’m not going to cry now. It’s a part of the game. That’s why we play here.” — Craig Custance (@CraigCustance) April 28, 2015
Mike Babcock said he was surprised Kronwall has a hearing with Department of Player Safety. Will plan today as if he’s in tmrw for Gm 7
— Katie Strang (@KatieStrangESPN) April 28, 2015
Main Photo:
Vine courtesy of @SportsCenter
