Alex Pietrangelo's Future Uncertain with Possible 10-Game Suspension

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Austin Kelly
June 11, 2023 (7:37 PM)

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Alex Pietrangelo may have been caught in a serious NHL offense

Could Pietrangelo Be Suspended For 10 Games?"

Alex Pietrangelo was involved in a fight at the end of Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals between Florida and Vegas, with him leaving the Penalty Box to join in on the skirmish, a move that may have a serious consequence for him.

NHL rulebook has a heavy fine for leaving the Penalty Box for a fight

A Twitter user quickly pointed out the NHL Rulebook code for a player leaving the bench, as explained in Rule 70:4,

"At the stoppage of a play following the expiration of their penalties, if a player or players exiting the Penalty bench get involved in an altercation, those coming from the Penalty bench shall be assessed a the penalties they incur in the altercation in addition to a ten (10) game suspension"

However, this rule can be interpreted as for leaving the box in-play for a fight, as opposed to Pietrangelo, who left the box at the end of the game, which is unclear if it holds the same circumstance as laid out in the rule.

As well, the rule specifies that the ten game suspension only applies if the opposing team of the penalized player is the aggressor. The video does not make clear who started the fight, with both teams going at it, but if the NHL looks into disciplinary action, it would have to be assumed it will be looked at if either side started the fight.

Pietrangelo was not actively involved in the lead up to the fight, which may be another factor in how the matter is addressed by the league, if it is viewed that Pietrangelo needlessly engaged in the conflict.

It's likely to assume that Pietrangelo could face action, although 10 games seems highly unlikely given its excessiveness and the game having ended, but likely there will be a response from the NHL.

Vegas, only a win away from the Stanley Cup Finals, now is tasked with knowing if one of their top players is out for a long period of time.