What Happened
Columbus Blue Jackets forward Mathieu Olivier was assessed a five-minute major and a game misconduct on Tuesday for slashing Florida Panthers defenceman Uvis Balinskis. The play occurred as the two battled for a puck along the boards in the Florida end, with Olivier slashing Balinskis between the legs from behind. Balinskis went down to the ice in pain, and officials reviewed the play before ejecting Olivier. Olivier finished the game with a minus-1 rating in 9:13 of ice time.
Key Details
- Olivier received a five-minute major and game misconduct for slashing.
- The slash was delivered from behind between the legs of Balinskis.
- Balinskis briefly left the game but returned.
- Olivier, 29, had two goals in the first four games this season.
- Officials reviewed the play before deciding on the ejection.
What It Means
The major and game misconduct could lead to supplemental discipline for Olivier from the NHL Department of Player Safety. The Blue Jackets may be without the 29-year-old winger if a suspension is handed down. Olivier had been contributing offensively early this season with two goals in four games.
What's Next
The NHL Department of Player Safety may review the incident and could announce supplemental discipline for Olivier in the coming days.