The news comes after the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced that Tom Wilson would face an in-person hearing for high-sticking Toronto Maple Leafs forward Noah Gregor in the face which would mean he could be suspended for six games or more.
During the Capitals 7-3 loss to the Maple Leafs, Wilson received a double minor penalty from the officials for the incident.
It appeared that Wilson was reacting to Gregor spearing him in the chest. After the high stick, Wilson seemed to realize his mistake immediately, holding Gregor up and offering apologies.
Following the penalty, John Tavares scored on the ensuing power play, further widening the gap between the Capitals and the Maple Leafs.
Wilson has a history of suspensions and fines, with five previous suspensions and three fines in his career. His most recent suspension was in March 2021 for boarding Boston Bruins defenseman Brandon Carlo, resulting in a seven-game punishment.
This suspension significantly impacts the Capitals, as he is one of their key players. This absence comes at a crucial time as the team is fighting for a playoff spot, currently sitting just one point out of the second wild-card position in the Eastern Conference following the loss to Toronto.
Do you think this suspension is fair?
POLL | ||
22 MARS | 115 ANSWERS Washington Capitals Forward Tom Wilson Officially Suspended By The NHL Do you think this suspension is fair? | ||
Yes | 89 | 77.4 % |
No | 26 | 22.6 % |
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