Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Morgan Rielly has been handed a five-game suspension by the NHL following a recent cross-checking incident with Ottawa Senators forward Ridly Greig. Rielly’s suspension was imposed after a virtual hearing with the league’s department of player safety.
In the closing stages of the game between the two teams, Rielly cross-checked Greig in the head and left shoulder in response to Greig’s slap shot into an empty net. The NHL deemed Rielly’s actions as a deliberate and forceful strike to an opponent’s head, utilising the stick as a weapon in an act of retribution after a goal had been scored.
As a consequence of the suspension, Rielly will forfeit $195,313 in salary. With the suspension being for fewer than six games, Rielly’s only avenue for appeal is to Commissioner Gary Bettman, should he choose to pursue one. The Maple Leafs now face the challenge of navigating a series of games without one of their key players as they vie for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
The loss of Rielly, a standout performer this season, represents a significant setback for the Maple Leafs. The 29-year-old plays over 24 minutes per game for Toronto and contributes across all areas of the game. His absence will unquestionably create a void in the team’s lineup.
The incident has ignited conversations around the emotional aspect of the game, delving into the unwritten rules of scoring an empty-net goal and the debate over retribution in the closing stages of a match. Players and veterans in the league have shared their perspectives on the situation, with some acknowledging the intensity and emotions that come with the game.
Rielly argued during his hearing that he made contact with Greig’s body before striking his opponent’s head. However, the NHL maintained that the use of the stick in that context was still unacceptable, given that the outcome of the game had already been determined.
Having missed Tuesday night’s game and set to sit out several more, Rielly’s return to the lineup is scheduled for February 22 in Vegas. His absence will undoubtedly be felt as the Maple Leafs continue their push towards the playoffs.
Rielly’s suspension raises questions about the impact of such actions on the game and the responsibility of players to manage emotional moments on the ice. As the league continues to enforce disciplinary measures, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for players to conduct themselves with sportsmanship and respect for opponents.
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