Could Washington Capitals forward Marcus Johansson be facing supplemental discipline from the National Hockey League?
Johansson was given a minor penalty for a hit to the head of New York Islanders defenseman Thomas Hickey in the first period of Thursday’s game but it’s possible the league determines further discipline may be necessary.
Capitals coach Barry Trotz defended Johansson and the hit after the game.
“I watched it,” said Trotz, as per CSN Mid-Atlantic. “Their guy was putting the puck into the zone. Marcus came into him and got him with a shoulder. Marcus is not that type of player at all.
“It’s unfortunate, but (Hickey) was bent over when he shot it. His head came down a little bit and Marcus was trying to hit him through the crest (on his jersey). I didn’t think there was anything malice or anything vicious on it. It was just a hard hit.”
Marcus Johansson said he doesn't anticipate anything coming from his hit on Thomas Hickey. #CapitalsTalk
— Chuck Gormley (@CharlesAGormley) January 8, 2016
Hickey, who left briefly but ultimately remained in the game, also addressed the hit, saying Johansson is not a dirty player.
“I think that’s half me trying to protect myself better and half him coming in a little high,” said Hickey, as per Newsday Long Island.
“I haven’t seen the replay but I know he’s not a dirty player at all.”