Tampa Bay Lightning forward Connor Geekie facing major suspension for his actions against the Florida Panthers
Tampa Bay Lightning forward Conor Geekie is facing a major suspension for his actions in last night's preseason game against the Florida Panthers, as announced by the NHL Department of Player Safety.
The game, a heated matchup between the Lightning and Panthers, escalated after Florida's Josh Davies, a 2022 draft pick, delivered a big open-ice hit on Tampa Bay's captain, Victor Hedman. Lightning star Nikita Kucherov quickly stepped in to defend his teammate, dropping the gloves with Davies.
Later in the game, Conor Geekie, still upset about the hit on Hedman, went after Davies, leading to another fight. With the number of preseason injuries to key players, including Patrik Laine of the Canadiens, it's common to see players stand up for their teammates to send a message.
Unfortunately for Geekie, this action may result in a significant suspension. The Department of Player Safety has scheduled a hearing with Geekie, though it's been confirmed that it's not the automatic 10-game suspension. However, Geekie is still expected to face consequences.
Geekie, 20, was drafted 11th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in 2020 and joined the Lightning in a trade involving Mikhail Sergachev. Last season, he scored 99 points in 55 WHL games and added nine points in the playoffs. While he could start the season with the Lightning, there's still a chance the team might send him to the AHL for further development.
We're waiting to see what decisions the Lightning and the Department of Player Safety make regarding Geekie's future.
UPDATE
Conor Geekie has officially been suspended for 1 game by the NHL.
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