What Happened
The NHL Department of Player Safety announced that Montreal Canadiens defenceman Mike Matheson has been fined $5,000 for roughing Ottawa Senators forward Ridley Greig. The financial penalty is the maximum allowable under the collective bargaining agreement. The supplemental discipline stems from a second-period incident during a preseason game on Saturday, when Matheson reacted to being taken down in front of his net by delivering a punch to Greig's head followed by additional shots while on the ice. Both players were assessed two-minute minor penalties for roughing during the game.
Key Details
- Fine amount is $5,000, the maximum under the CBA.
- Infraction was roughing against Ottawa forward Ridley Greig.
- Incident occurred in the second period of Saturday's preseason game.
- Both players received two-minute roughing penalties on the play.
What It Means
The fine closes the disciplinary matter stemming from Saturday's preseason matchup, allowing both players to avoid suspension and remain available for the start of the regular season.
What's Next
The Montreal Canadiens begin the regular season on Sep. 29 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Ottawa Senators open their schedule against the Maple Leafs on Oct. 3.