What Happened
Chicago Blackhawks forward Frank Nazar was assessed a match penalty for a hit to the head of New York Islanders captain Bo Horvat late in Tuesday's game. With the Islanders leading 3-1 and Chicago's net empty, Horvat had just shot the puck into the empty net when Nazar struck him high with a shoulder. Horvat got back to his feet, but Islanders head coach Peter DeBoer said the captain was being evaluated. The hit triggered a large on-ice scrum, and Blackhawks Tyler Bertuzzi and Logan Stanley each received 10-minute misconducts.
Key Details
- Nazar received a match penalty for the hit.
- The hit came with under two minutes left and the Blackhawks' net empty.
- Horvat had just released a shot into the empty net when he was hit.
- Horvat got to his feet but was being evaluated, per coach Peter DeBoer.
- Bertuzzi and Stanley received 10-minute misconducts during the ensuing scrum.
- Islanders defenceman Emil Heineman called the hit a cheap shot.
What It Means
The match penalty carries an automatic game misconduct and will be reviewed by the NHL Department of Player Safety, which could result in a suspension for Nazar. Horvat's health is a concern for an Islanders team that relies on its captain in all situations. The incident adds tension to future meetings between the two clubs.
What's Next
The NHL Department of Player Safety is expected to review the match penalty for possible supplemental discipline. The Islanders are expected to provide an update on Horvat's condition after his evaluation.