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Former NHL defenseman defends Connor McDavid after cross-check gets him ejected

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Graham Montgomery
January 19, 2025  (9:52 PM)
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Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Pronger defended Connor McDavid today after he was ejected last night for cross-checking.

The Oilers superstar was ejected in the dying seconds of last night's game against the Vancouver Canucks.

The game misconduct came as a result of him cross-checking Canucks forward Connor Garland in the head after the two players were engaged in a lengthy grappling match.

Now, McDavid is facing a hearing for his actions, most likely leading to a suspension.

That being said, there are some in the hockey world who are defending McDavid today.

Perhaps most notably, Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Pronger came out supporting the Oilers captain, saying he loved it.

"Does anyone else NOT have a problem w/what McDavid did here? Or even low-key LOVED it?

He needs to do this more often maybe not to the level of suspension like this but it will give him some extra space. Teams key on taking time and space away from him and try to frustrate him. Taking it into your own hands is good ... sometimes"

Pronger is not the only one defending McDavid either. After all, he was being held by Garland before the cross-check, and the officials appeared as though they were just going to let it go.

That being said, McDavid may have crossed a line with his reaction. Many fans would probably be okay with a cross-check, but the fact that he got Garland in the head is hard to defend.

Similarly, the NHL has seemingly taken a more strict stance against plays like this when the head is the primary point of contact.

It appears as though we may have to wait until tomorrow to find out McDavid's fate, so tune in tomorrow to see how many games he will have to sit out.

POLL

How many games do you think Connor McDavid will be suspended for his cross check on Connor Garland?

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