NHL Player Safety Officially Rules on Nikita Zadorov's Hit on Scott Laughton
Photo credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Scott Laughton has missed time since being hit by Nikita Zadorov of the Boston Bruins, and there is a debate about the punishment.
Leafs fans were not impressed with their team on Saturday night as they had a horrific performance against the Boston Bruins, resulting in a 5-3 loss.
However, the Leafs lost more than just the game. They also lost out on Scott Laughton, who was in his second game back from a lower-body injury.
In the second period, Laughton was hit hard in the head by Boston Bruins star Nikita Zadorov. Laughton subsequently missed Sunday's game against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Since that time, there have been debates about whether or not Zadorov's hit was a dirty one and if the NHL Department of Player Safety should make a ruling.
Nikita Zadorov gets off after hitting Scott Laughton
Well, the NHL had until 5 PM on Sunday to say something about the hit. In the end, they chose not to, and now, the Zadorov is off the hook.
Based on the hit, which can be seen below, it is easy to see why the league ended up letting this one go. It just wasn't malicious or egregious enough for a fine, let alone a suspension.
There is still no timeline for when Laughton is going to be able to return to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Last night, he was clearly missed.
The Leafs have not had very much luck when it comes to head shots as of late, as Matvei Michkov caught Chris Tanev with one just last week.
It's been a very difficult time for the Maple Leafs, injuries-wise, and there is no telling whether or not their luck will finally turn around soon.
Whatever the case may be, we're sure there are some Maple Leafs fans out there who are upset with today's ruling.
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