Jeannot Hearing: Illegal Check On Canucks Player

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Post on Nov 09, 2024

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Jeannot Hearing: Illegal Check on Canucks Player Sparks Controversy

The NHL's Department of Player Safety announced a hearing for Tampa Bay Lightning forward Pierre-Edouard Bellemare for an illegal check to the head of Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson during their game on March 3rd, 2023. This hearing has sparked significant debate, with many questioning whether the incident warranted a suspension.

The Incident: A Close Call

The play in question occurred in the second period of the game. As Pettersson skated towards the net, Bellemare delivered a check that caught the Canucks forward high, seemingly making contact with his head. The hit was forceful and resulted in Pettersson briefly leaving the game, returning later without visible signs of injury.

The Argument for Suspension: A Dangerous Hit

Supporters of a suspension point to the forceful nature of the hit and its potential for serious injury. They argue that the impact to Pettersson's head was unavoidable and that Bellemare should face disciplinary action for his actions. The fact that Pettersson left the game, even briefly, further fuels the argument that the hit warranted a suspension.

The Argument Against Suspension: A Clean Check

Opponents of a suspension argue that the hit was clean and that Bellemare made a legitimate attempt to check Pettersson. They emphasize that Bellemare did not target Pettersson's head and that the contact occurred as a result of a natural collision between two players. Additionally, they point to the lack of any significant injury to Pettersson as evidence that the hit was not overly dangerous.

The Decision: A Fine, Not a Suspension

Ultimately, the Department of Player Safety determined that Bellemare's hit warranted a fine, but not a suspension. The decision was based on the belief that while the hit was forceful, it was not intentional and that Bellemare did not target Pettersson's head. The fine served as a deterrent, while allowing Bellemare to remain on the ice and continue playing.

The Aftermath: A Heated Discussion

The decision to fine, not suspend, Bellemare has drawn mixed reactions. While some see it as a fair compromise, others believe that a suspension was necessary to protect players and discourage similar hits in the future. The debate surrounding the incident highlights the inherent subjectivity in evaluating hockey hits and the ongoing challenge of finding a balance between player safety and the physical nature of the game.

This event serves as a reminder of the importance of player safety in hockey and the ongoing dialogue surrounding contact and injury.

Keywords: Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, Elias Pettersson, Tampa Bay Lightning, Vancouver Canucks, NHL, Department of Player Safety, illegal check, head injury, suspension, fine, hockey, player safety.