BREAKING: The NHL Has Handed Out a 4-Game Suspension to a Superstar

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Skyler Walker
October 31, 2023 (5:06 PM)

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Bruins' McAvoy Faces Suspension for Illegal Hit

In a twist of unfortunate events, Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy has found himself in the same situation as his former teammate, Connor Clifton, who received a suspension for an illegal check to the head just days ago.

McAvoy's Four-Game Suspension

On Tuesday evening, the NHL delivered the verdict: McAvoy will serve a four-game suspension for his illegal check to the head and interference involving Florida Panthers defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson.

The incident unfolded during the third period of Boston's thrilling 3-2 overtime victory on Monday night. McAvoy made a deep offensive push into Florida's zone, delivering a blindside hit to Ekman-Larsson after the defenseman tried to handle a bouncing puck.

McAvoy's actions led to a five-minute match penalty and drew the attention of the NHL Department of Player Safety (DOPS) for two critical reasons: the primary point of impact was Ekman-Larsson's head, and the hit was deemed late enough to qualify as interference.

This is not McAvoy's first suspension; he received one in 2019 for an illegal check to the head. While he isn't technically a repeat offender within the 18-month window, his previous infraction for a similar offense will likely be taken into account. Ekman-Larsson is currently undergoing evaluations for a potential head injury.