NHL: Draisaitl Avoids Suspension for Hit; Barkov Expected to Play in Game 3

Tuesday, June 11th, 2024

Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers managed to avoid a suspension for his illegal hit on Aleksander Barkov, the Florida Panthers' captain, during Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final. Barkov suffered a head injury as a result of the hit.

The NHL Department of Player Safety decided that the hit did not warrant a suspension. They concluded it was neither predatory nor intentional, and Draisaitl's history does not include prior illegal hits to the head.

Barkov's condition is improving, and coach Paul Maurice is optimistic that he may be able to participate in Game 3 on Thursday night.

The Panthers currently hold a 2-0 lead in the series. Edmonton will need a victory in Game 3 to keep their chances in the series alive.

In other disciplinary actions, Oilers forward Sam Carrick received the maximum fine for slashing Dmitry Kulikov during Game 2.

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