Per the NHL, Blackhawks forward Marian Hossa will not be suspended for his hit on Dan Hamhuis in yesterday’s playoff game. Here is what NHL VP of Hockey Operations had to say about the decision:
“I have made the decision that this play does not warrant supplemental discipline after considering all of the facts, including reviewing the video and speaking with Mr. Hossa,” said Campbell. “This play is distinguishable from recent incidents by a number of factors, including the degree of contact involved; the fact that the consequences of the play do not appear to be as severe; that this was a hockey play involving a race for the puck; that Mr. Hossa is not a repeat offender; and that the call of a major penalty by the referee was significant and appropriate.”
Translation: The play was not as severe as the similar hit by Alex Ovechkin on Brian Campbell, as it wasn’t as violent a shove, Hamhuis was not injured while Campbell was, the puck was in the direct vicinity and Hossa didn’t have the suspension history that Ovechkin does.
So yeah, not surprised by this decision at all. Campbell also didn’t mention that Ovechkin’s hit was in the regular season while Hossa’s less-severe hit was in the playoffs. That’s a factor as well.