Minnesota Wild forward Ryan Hartman has been suspended one game by the NHL Department of Player Safety for his hit on Winnipeg Jets’ Nikolaj Ehlers during their game on Wednesday night. Despite the suspension, the Wild can breathe a sigh of relief as Hartman will be available for the playoffs. With five games left in the regular season and the team fighting for positioning in the West Division, losing Hartman would have been a tough blow for the Wild. Let’s take a closer look at the hit and the implications of the suspension.
Minnesota Wild’s Ryan Hartman has been suspended for one game following his hit on Winnipeg Jets’ Nikolaj Ehlers on Tuesday, as confirmed by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety. Hartman has been charged with interference after his big hit on Ehlers in the third period of Winnipeg’s 3-1 win, which resulted in him being assessed a penalty. The Wild forward, who has scored 15 goals and provided 22 assists for 37 points in 59 games this season, will be able to join the team for the playoff opening game, however, he will sit out the upcoming match against the Nashville Predators.
The decision made by the NHL has been scrutinised by fans and experts, with several debates revolving around why the suspension was not more severe. While Minnesota Wild supporters may have been relieved to hear that Hartman will be back for the playoffs, the suspension serves as a warning for players to avoid such clashes during high-pressure games.
In line with NHL’s safety policy, the suspension has been implemented to protect players from the detrimental and long-lasting impact of hard hits. The NHL’s Department of Player Safety has recognised the potential dangers involved in the contact of this degree, and while this is a one-game suspension, the incident serves as a reminder that reckless plays will not go unpunished. Overall, the NHL’s decision to impose a suspension importantly reinforces the need for players to remain cautious during gameplay and ensure the safety of others on the ice.
As the playoffs quickly approach, the Minnesota Wild will be without Ryan Hartman for just one game due to his hit on Nikolaj Ehlers. Although it’s tough to lose a player in any circumstance, the Wild can rest easy knowing that they won’t be without Hartman for long. With the team already securing their playoff spot, they’ll be gearing up to make a deep run and Hartman will be an important part of that effort. With just a few weeks remaining in the regular season, every game counts and the Wild will be focused on finishing strong. It’s an exciting time for hockey fans, and we can’t wait to see what the playoffs have in store for us all.
