The hockey world watched with bated breath as Brock Boeser, Vancouver’s star forward, went down after a heavy hit from Tanner Jeannot in Thursday night’s game against the Los Angeles Kings. Jeannot received a match penalty for an illegal check to the head, leaving fans and analysts alike speculating about the repercussions.
Now, the burning question on everyone’s mind is: will Tanner Jeannot be suspended?
Let’s break down the incident and consider the factors that the NHL Department of Player Safety will weigh in their decision.
The Hit
Boeser had just moved the puck in the neutral zone when Jeannot delivered the blow. The contact appeared to be primarily with Boeser’s head, and the Canucks forward was clearly shaken up. While he left the ice under his own power, there’s no doubt this was a dangerous play.
The Match Penalty
The on-ice officials wasted no time in assessing a match penalty to Jeannot. This signifies a deliberate attempt to injure or recklessly endanger an opponent. It’s a serious call that carries an automatic ejection and puts the player at the mercy of the league’s disciplinary process.
Video of Tanner Jeannot hit on Brock Boeser
Factors Influencing the Decision
The Department of Player Safety will review the play from all angles, considering several factors:
- Point of Contact: Was the head the main point of contact? It certainly appeared that way in real-time.
- Intent: Did Jeannot deliberately target Boeser’s head? This is always difficult to prove, but the force and angle of the hit will be scrutinized.
- Injury: While Boeser left the ice on his own, the severity of any potential injury will play a role in the decision.
- Jeannot’s History: Does Jeannot have a history of questionable hits or suspensions? A repeat offender is likely to face harsher punishment.
My Prediction
Based on my years of experience watching and analyzing the NHL, I believe a suspension is likely. The hit was undeniably dangerous, and the match penalty indicates the on-ice officials deemed it worthy of significant discipline. The league has been cracking down on head contact, and this incident sends a clear message that such plays will not be tolerated.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see Jeannot receive a suspension of at least two games, possibly more.
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