The NHL has suspended Flyers forward Zac Rinaldo two games for a hit he put on Red Wings defenseman Jonathan Ericsson in Sunday's game.
Feb 13, 2012 - The NHL has suspended Philadelphia Flyers forward Zac Rinaldo two games after reviewing the hit Rinaldo put on Detroit Red Wings defenseman Jonathan Ericsson during Sunday's game. Rinaldo launched himself from his skates and his shoulder struck Ericsson in the head, a charging penalty. Rinaldo had been fined twice by the league in the past week before the
NHL VP Brendan Shanahan offered a thorough explanation for his ruling:
Flyers fans aren't happy, but Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey agreed with the NHL's decision:
A lot of Flyers fans are furious about this hit, and I do agree that two games might be a little much. But considering Rinaldo's history -- both during his NHL career and otherwise -- and reputatiion, we shouldn't necessarily be all that surprised.
All he had to do was stay on his skates and deliver the hit to the body and it would've been highlight-reel quality. He got a little too jumpy on this one, and he'll pay the price for it. I'm not sure it's all that grave an injustice, either.
For news and analysis of the Flyers, visit Broad Street Hockey and SB Nation Philly.
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