The officials made no call on the illegal boarding hit, but it is obvious from watching the replay that Kucherov hit Guhle right in the numbers. It is safe to assume that since the department of player safety has been making an effort to crack down on punishing violent hits, they will most likely suspend Nikita Kucherov.
Kucherov was competing against Nathan Mackinnon and Connor McDavid for the Art Ross Trophy this season. If the department of player safety decides to suspend him, Kucherov will definitely be out of the race for the Art Ross Trophy.
This video shows that Kucherov's hit left Kaiden Guhle with a bloody mouth. Guhle has had an incredible season so far, proving himself against many tough situations and many tough opponents. In his role as a defenseman, Guhle has still managed to score 6 goals this season, despite this dirty hit he received from Kucherov, his future looks bright.
It is now up to the department of player safety to make the final decision regarding Kucherov's suspension.
Source - MarkerZone: Nikita Kucherov may face suspension for vicious hit on Kaiden Guhle
POLL | ||
Do you think the league will suspend Kucherov for this illegal hit? | ||
Yes | 72 | 45.9 % |
No | 77 | 49 % |
It was a perfectly legal hit | 8 | 5.1 % |
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