(courtesy of Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
On Sunday night when Washington’s Alexander Ovechkin launched himself into Pens’ Zbynek Michalek many wondered whether he would face disciplinary action from Brendan Shanahan. Earlier today they got their answer as the VP of player safety handed a 3 game suspension more commonly known as a Shanaban. His third suspension in his career, the hit was deemed dangerous not only because Ovi’s elbow made contact with Michalek’s head but also because he left the ice which is a big no-no in the NHL today.
Ovechkin will still participate in this weekend’s NHL All-Star Game despite the suspension as long he doesn’t opt out in the coming days. While most hits to the head have warranted suspensions this year it’s refreshing to know that marquee players don’t get passes for dangerous hits such as the one by Ovechkin. Below is an explanation by Shanahan.
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