Leon Draisaitl speaks on avoiding suspension for hit against Barkov

Speaking to the media today, Draisaitl was asked point-blank his thoughts on avoiding a suspension for the hit, and answered if he thought it was dirty.

Draisaitl seemed to stress that the contact was mostly incidental, that he had no desire to hurt Barkov, but still admitted that it was delivered in an unfortunate spot.

While Barkov had his head down, Draisaitl came down the boards and lead with his hands while moving upward to make contact with Barkov's head. Barkov had to leave for the remaining ten minutes of the game, but will be in the lineup tonight.

It's great news to hear Barkov is okay and will be in the lineup after taking this hard contact to the head, and honestly, it's great that Draisaitl is still in this series. For the quality of the game, no hockey fan wants to lose either superstar in the Stanley Cup Final. If this hit was in the regular season than perhaps Draisaitl would receive a one game suspension, but in the Cup Final with no prior history, a minor penalty is enough.

Leon Draisaitl also commented on the highly anticipated atmosphere of Rogers Place tonight, but keenly said the Oilers have to give the fans a reason to keep the building rocking.

Tonight's home game is an absolute must win for the Oilers if they want a real chance at coming back to win this series. It's hard to ever count out the Oilers after dragging themselves out of last place this season, but they have a tall task ahead of them right now. Tonight needs to be the first step.

Source: Edmonton Oilers