For those wondering how Brendan Shanahan would handle repeat offenders under his watch, wonder no more: Edmonton Oilers’ defenseman Andy Sutton was suspended today for eight games for his charging Alexei Ponikarovsky on Wednesday night.
We learned yesterday that Sutton had waived his right to an in-person hearing signaling that the suspension could be lengthy. Within the official NHL explanation, Shanahan explains that the suspension length is due in large part to Sutton’s prior supplemental discipline history (in addition to Sutton charging on the play). He also clarified that they also took into account that Ponikarovsky was NOT injured on the play.
Can you imagine what the suspension would have been if Ponikarovsky was injured on the play?
Check out the league’s explanation and let us know what you think. Did the league do enough to a guy who has repeatedly crossed the line? Or is eight games enough for a play that didn’t cause severe injury to an opponent?