Pissed off by means of his group’s play, Matthews answered with a perilous top cross-check after Dahlin delivered a low hit to the Toronto middle and gave an additional shove. Each had been assessed minor consequences and the Sabres’ bench used to be incensed.
“Whilst we recognize Matthews’ argument that this isn’t a cross-check intended to hurt or injure his opponent, it is usually now not a regimen movement to field out an opponent or to achieve frame place,” the NHL Division of Participant Protection stated within the video summarizing its determination. “Having simply been fascinated with a shoving fit with Dahlin that knocked him into the online, Matthews aggressively retaliates by means of elevating his stick considerably and growing this touch. It is a top, forceful go test that makes touch with an opponent’s neck with enough power to advantage supplemental self-discipline.”
Matthews will lose $116,402.50, with the cash going to the Gamers’ Emergency Help Fund, the league stated in a information unencumber. Dahlin used to be now not injured at the play.
