McAvoy’s Suspension Upheld: Lack of Accountability or Fair Decision?

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman recently upheld the four-game suspension of Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy for an illegal check to the head of Florida Panthers defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson. The incident occurred on October 30th and resulted in a match penalty for McAvoy. Following the penalty, the NHL Department of Player Safety suspended him for four games, citing the avoidability of the contact. Despite the appeal made by the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA), Bettman ultimately decided to uphold the suspension.

During his appeal hearing, McAvoy admitted that the check was not executed as he had intended. He expressed regret, acknowledging the mistake he made in a split second decision. McAvoy emphasized that he had no intention to injure Ekman-Larsson. However, Bettman stood firm in his ruling, highlighting that McAvoy could and should have avoided the illegal hit altogether. The commissioner’s decision rested on the idea that such actions are entirely preventable.

With McAvoy having already served three games of the suspension, he will be eligible to return when the Bruins face off against the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday. However, this suspension has raised questions about the extent of accountability for players and the consistency of NHL disciplinary actions. Furthermore, this is the second time this season the NHLPA has appealed a suspension decision to Bettman.

Lack of Consistency

One of the concerns stemming from this upheld suspension is the lack of consistency in the NHL’s disciplinary rulings. Earlier this season, Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson appealed a four-game ban for a hit to the head of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine. Bettman also upheld that suspension, leading to further speculation about the fairness and objectivity of these decisions.

In the case of McAvoy’s suspension, it is clear that Bettman prioritized accountability and the prevention of avoidable incidents on the ice. However, the NHLPA’s appeal and the subsequent decision raise valid concerns about consistency within the league’s disciplinary actions. As NHL players continue to face suspensions for unsafe play, it is important for the league to provide clear guidelines and standards to ensure fairness and transparency in these crucial decisions.