NHL Player Safety Officially Suspends Cale Makar After Reckless Collision

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Skyler Walker
April 25, 2023 (12:35)

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As the Colorado Avalanche and Seattle Kraken face off in Game 4, the hockey world is still reeling from the Kraken's success throughout this season and early in the playoffs. However, after earning their first home playoff win, the task may have gotten tougher for the Kraken, as they lost a critical player to injury following a dirty hit by Cale Makar.

Despite the Kraken jumping to an early lead, Makar appeared to be looking for a spark when he made a dangerous hit on Kraken forward Jared McCann. With the puck nowhere near the play, Makar blindsided McCann, hitting him in a vulnerable and unsuspecting spot, sending him hard into the boards.

Initially called a five-minute major penalty, the hit was somehow reduced to a minor penalty after a review initiated by an official. While some officials may not have seen the play as dangerous as a typical boarding call since Makar made contact with McCann's shoulders, the vulnerability of McCann's position and the fact that he was completely away from the puck makes this hit especially egregious.

This injury is a significant blow to the Kraken, who have been relying on McCann's contributions throughout the playoffs. They will need to find a way to fill the void left by his absence as they continue to battle against the Avalanche. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the situation and waiting for updates on McCann's condition.

In the meantime on McCann's injury update, Makar is out indefinitely as he has been suspended one game.

Is this a fair punishment?