San Jose Sharks forward Kevin Labanc has been awarded a one-game suspension by the National League Player Safety Department for a leg-up served to rival St. Louis Blues Tyler Bozak during the first period of Thursday’s game.
The skater at fault had to justify his action to the player safety department on Friday. In the sequence, the two men fell and hit the gang heavily.
“It’s important to note that during a game, a player often uses his legs or stick and upper body to brake his opponent or give himself an advantage in a fight for the puck,” said- one in the explanatory video of the department. In the vast majority of these situations, a penalty awarded on the ice is sufficient. What makes this game require an additional penalty is the speed at which the players skate and the proximity to the board. “
Despite a violent fall on the tape and an apparent twist in his leg, Bozak escaped unscathed. Author of two goals and as many assists in 11 games this season, Labanc received a minor penalty for tripping and his team lost 4-1.
The Sharks will host the Washington Capitals their next outing on Saturday. This is when Labanc will serve his suspension.