With the Edmonton Oilers trailing late in the game forward Leon Draisaitl made the decision to deliver a questionable hit. On the play, the forward left his feet and delivered an arm directly to the face of Florida Panthers captain Sasha Barkov.
On the play Draisaitl received a minor penalty but could face supplemental discipline if the league chooses to review the hit. After the hit Barkov left the ice with trainers and did not return for the remainder of the game.
While many felt that Barkov may have remained in the locker room for precautionary reasons there are now reports that the forward may have suffered a serious injury that may end his season. According to a report, it sounds as if Barkov may have sustained a broken jaw on the play.
The Panthers currently hold at 2-0 series lead, If their captain is done for the season that could present serious issues. It would allow. Connor McDavid the opportunity to face much lesser competition and possibly break out and giving the Oilers a legitimate chance at coming back in the series.
However, if the NHL Department of player safety does decide to review this play and takes injury into account, it is possible that the Oilers could be without Draisaitl as well.
POLL | ||
Does this hit deserve supplemental discipline? | ||
Yes, it's clearly a target shot to the head | 267 | 67.6 % |
No, that's hockey | 108 | 27.3 % |
Injuries shouldn't matter for suspensions | 20 | 5.1 % |
List of polls |