Introduction to the Incident
The National Hockey League (NHL) has taken disciplinary action against Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad. Ekblad has been suspended for two games due to an incident involving Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brandon Hagel.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred during Game 4 of the first-round series between the Panthers and the Lightning. Ekblad elbowed Hagel in the head with his right elbow and forearm, causing Hagel to leave the ice and not return to the game. The hit was not penalized at the time, but the NHL’s Department of Player Safety reviewed the play and determined that disciplinary action was necessary.
Aftermath and Suspension
Ekblad will miss Game 5 and either Game 6 of the current series or the Panthers’ first game in the next round. The suspension is a result of a phone hearing with Ekblad, where the NHL’s Department of Player Safety presented their case and determined the appropriate disciplinary action.
Impact on the Teams
The injury to Hagel is a significant blow to the Lightning, as he will not play in Game 5. This is not the first time Hagel has been involved in a disciplinary incident in the series, as he was suspended for Game 3 due to a late hit on Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov.
Previous Disciplinary Actions
Ekblad has also been involved in disciplinary incidents in the past. He missed the first two games and the final 18 games of the regular season due to a suspension for violating the league and NHLPA’s performance-enhancing drug policy. The Panthers have experience playing without Ekblad and are prepared to make the necessary adjustments to their lineup.
Additional Disciplinary Actions
Another Panthers defenseman, Niko Mikkola, was fined $5,000 for boarding Tampa Bay’s Zemgus Girgensons. Mikkola was given a five-minute major and ejected from the game for the play, which occurred early in the third period of Game 4.
Conclusion
The suspension of Aaron Ekblad and the injury to Brandon Hagel are significant developments in the series between the Panthers and the Lightning. The disciplinary actions taken by the NHL demonstrate the league’s commitment to player safety and fair play. The Panthers and Lightning will need to adjust their lineups and strategies as they move forward in the series.
FAQs
- Q: How many games is Aaron Ekblad suspended for?
- A: Ekblad is suspended for two games.
- Q: Why was Ekblad suspended?
- A: Ekblad was suspended for elbowing Brandon Hagel in the head during Game 4.
- Q: Will Brandon Hagel play in Game 5?
- A: No, Hagel will not play in Game 5 due to the injury.
- Q: Was Niko Mikkola suspended or fined?
- A: Mikkola was fined $5,000 for boarding Zemgus Girgensons.
