The recent game between the Arizona Coyotes and the Florida Panthers became a topic of discussion within the hockey community due to a hit by Coyotes forward Jason Zucker on Panthers forward Nick Cousins. Zucker’s actions led to a hearing with the NHL Department of Player Safety, raising questions about his conduct on the ice.
During the game, Cousins delivered a hit on Coyotes defenseman Juuso Valimaki, who was on one knee near the side boards. Observing this, Zucker skated over and checked Cousins into the glass, causing his head to make contact. The impact resulted in a fight between Zucker and Florida’s Gustav Forsling, with Zucker being penalized with a five-minute major for boarding and subsequently given a game misconduct.
Panthers coach Paul Maurice stated that Cousins is now in the concussion protocol, indicating the severity of the hit. Surprisingly, the hit delivered by Cousins on Valimaki did not result in a penalty during the game or supplementary discipline from the NHL. Many fans voiced their outrage after watching the replay, as it appeared that Cousins targeted a vulnerable Valimaki. However, a different angle revealed that Cousins had little time to adjust his approach as Valimaki fell to the ice.
Valimaki managed to remain in the game, playing nine shifts in the third period for Arizona, suggesting that the hit’s impact was not substantial enough for further action. It is worth mentioning that Cousins has gained a reputation for being an agitator, known for his provocative language and aggressive style of play.
Previous Controversial Incidents
Last month, Cousins was involved in another episode of borderline hits when he collided with Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Erik Gudbranson. On that occasion, Cousins drove Gudbranson’s head into the end boards. Initially, it was ruled as a major penalty for boarding but was later downgraded to a minor penalty after review. Following the hit, Gudbranson retaliated against Cousins, resulting in a one-game suspension for the Blue Jackets defenseman handed down by NHL Player Safety.
The Department of Player Safety’s Intervention
The NHL Department of Player Safety exists to ensure player safety and discipline those who break the rules. With Zucker’s hit on Cousins under scrutiny, the department held a hearing to investigate the incident thoroughly. The outcome of the hearing will determine if Zucker will face further punishment, which could include a suspension or fine.
The incident involving Jason Zucker’s hit on Nick Cousins during the Coyotes vs. Panthers game has stirred controversy, prompting a hearing with the NHL Department of Player Safety. While the initial hit by Cousins on Juuso Valimaki did not warrant a penalty or disciplinary action, Zucker’s retaliatory check raised concerns about player safety. As the hockey community awaits the department’s decision, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to create a safer and fairer playing environment for all involved in the sport.
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