On Monday, the National Hockey League (NHL) announced that Michael Bunting, a forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs, would be suspended for three games due to an illegal hit on Erik Cernak of the Tampa Bay Lightning during a game on Saturday.
The incident occurred in the second period of the game when Bunting hit Cernak from behind into the boards. The hit was deemed illegal by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety due to its violent nature and the fact that Cernak was in a vulnerable position at the time.
Bunting, who has no prior disciplinary history with the NHL, was given a major penalty and a game misconduct for the hit. The league’s decision to suspend him for three games is meant to send a message that such dangerous hits will not be tolerated.
The suspension will cost Bunting approximately $16,000 in lost salary and will leave the Maple Leafs without one of their key players for three important games. The team is currently fighting for a playoff spot and will need to rely on other players to step up in Bunting’s absence.
While some fans may argue that the hit was not intentional or that it was simply a part of the physical nature of hockey, the NHL has made it clear that player safety is a top priority. Hits like the one Bunting delivered can cause serious injury and have no place in the sport.
In recent years, the NHL has taken steps to reduce the number of dangerous hits and improve player safety. This includes stricter penalties for illegal hits, increased education for players on safe play, and changes to equipment regulations.
The league’s decision to suspend Bunting for three games is just one example of its commitment to player safety. As fans continue to enjoy the excitement and physicality of hockey, it is important to remember that the safety of the players should always come first.
