The Hit and Its Consequences
Leon Draisaitl's hit on Aleksander Barkov during a recent game between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers has become a focal point of discussion. The hit earned Draisaitl a two-minute minor penalty for roughing, changing the dynamics of the game that was delicately poised with the Panthers leading 2-1.
The incident occurred while Barkov was playing the puck in his defensive zone. Draisaitl, on the forecheck, left his skates and made contact with his elbow to Barkov's jaw. The result was immediate; Barkov fell to the ice, required medical attention, and was subsequently taken to the trainers' room. Unfortunately for the Panthers, Barkov was unavailable for the last 9:28 of the game. Despite this setback, Panthers players rallied to secure a victory, extending their series lead to 2-0. As a result of Draisaitl's penalty, Evan Rodrigues capitalized on the ensuing power play, scoring his second goal of the game and sealing the win for Florida.
Player Safety Decision
The NHL Department of Player Safety conducted a review of Draisaitl's hit, ultimately determining that it did not warrant a suspension. According to their assessment, the hit was not considered predatory or delivered with intent to injure. Furthermore, Draisaitl's history played a role in the decision; he does not have a reputation for illegal hits to the head, with no suspensions and only two fines throughout his career.
The department also considered Barkov's status for Game 3 in their decision-making process. Barkov was visibly shaken by the hit, but reports indicated that his health was trending in the right direction, and he appeared on track to play in the next game.
Key Player Contributions
Barkov has been instrumental for the Panthers, tying for the team lead with 19 points in 19 games, alongside Matthew Tkachuk. His defensive prowess has also been crucial, particularly in shutting down Edmonton's star player, Connor McDavid, who has managed only one assist in the first two games of the series.
On the other hand, Draisaitl remains a vital player for the Oilers, ranking second on the team in both goals and points in the postseason. Having him available for Game 3 is a significant relief for Edmonton as they seek to turn the series around.
Team Reactions
Panthers head coach offered an update on Barkov's condition: "He came in today. He wasn't worse. That's a really good thing. The real assessment will be tomorrow, but if he continues to progress, we should be in good shape." Another player remarked, "You never want to see your captain go down, but I thought everyone did a great job focusing and got the job done."
Addressing the hit itself, one of the Panthers' representatives noted, "I think he went in there to hit. His hands got up a little bit high. He was trying to knock him off the puck, and that led to the penalty."
Looking Ahead
With a 2-0 series lead, the Panthers are keen to maintain their momentum heading into Game 3. Barkov's expected return will be a significant boost for the team as they aim to put even more pressure on the Oilers. Conversely, the Oilers will need to capitalize on having Draisaitl back in the lineup and find ways to generate more offense, particularly from McDavid, who has been effectively contained thus far.
In other disciplinary news, Edmonton's forward Sam Carrick was fined $2,213.54 for slashing Florida's Dmitry Kulikov. Both teams clearly understand the importance of maintaining discipline and focus as they continue to vie for playoff success.
As one veteran player put it, "Part of that is the mental discipline to leave the game where it is regardless of the result. It's done for me. It's all done."
Fans are eagerly awaiting the next matchup, with Edmonton's home crowd poised to support their team in what promises to be another fiercely contested game. Game 3 will undoubtedly be pivotal for both teams, with the Oilers looking to make a comeback and the Panthers aiming to extend their lead.