The NHL’s perfect season (no suspensions thus far) may remain in tact after all.
According to NBCSN analyst and TSN hockey insider, Bob McKenzie, San Jose Sharks’ John Scott, who appeared to leave the bench during Sunday’s 4-1 win over the Anaheim Ducks, was penalized under Rule 73 of the NHL rule book.
SJ John Scott penalized under Rule 73 (game misconduct for leaving bench on legal line change to start altercation). @NHLPlayerSafety review
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 27, 2014
It will be up to @NHLPlayerSafety to determine if suspension is required and how many games. Rule 73 doesn't call for automatic suspension.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 27, 2014
Some believe Scott will be penalized similarly to Toronto Maple Leafs’ forward David Clarkson, who during the preseason last year left the bench to fight Scott - then a member of the Buffalo Sabres.
Clarkson was automatically suspended 10 games under Rule 70.10, which states, “The first player to leave the players’ or penalty bench illegally during an altercation or for the purpose of starting an altercation from either or both teams shall be suspended without pay for the next 10 regular League and/or playoff games of his team”.
If Mckenzie is right, Scott certainly won’t be suspended automatically, but could be subject to a suspension at the discretion of Senior Vice President of Player Safety, Stephane Quintal.
Should be interesting to see how Quintal’s new regime at the Department of Player Safety handles this one.The John Scott case has recent precedent. Ryane Clowe was suspended two games in Feb 2013 for an altercation after a legal line change.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) October 27, 2014Follow @dcmahiban