What Happened
Vasily Podkolzin was ejected from the Edmonton Oilers' match against the Anaheim Ducks midway through the first period. The incident occurred after Drew Helleson checked Connor McDavid into the net, prompting Podkolzin to engage in a fight. The 25-year-old winger was assessed a game misconduct, a five-minute fighting major, and a two-minute instigator penalty. Helleson received two minutes for unsportsmanlike conduct. McDavid initially left the ice but returned to play, while Cutter Gauthier scored the opening goal on the subsequent power play.
Key Details
- Podkolzin received a game misconduct, fighting major, and instigator penalty.
- The fight started with under 12 minutes left in the first period.
- Drew Helleson was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct.
- Connor McDavid returned to the game after the incident.
- Cutter Gauthier scored the first goal on a five-minute power play.
What It Means
The incident highlights the protective role Podkolzin plays for McDavid, though the ejection shifted momentum as the Ducks capitalized on the resulting power play to open the scoring.
What's Next
The Oilers must adjust their lineup for the remainder of the game without Podkolzin, while McDavid continues to play.