Back from the game this afternoon. The hit from Wilson didn't look good live, but seeing the replay, I don't think the primary force was to Sundqvist's head. Why not? Watch the video. After Sundqvist was hit he spun around almost 360 degrees. If he was hit primarily in the head, centered over his body, his body doesn't spin like that - it falls straighter. The amount that he spun suggests that the primary force was delivered to the periphery of his body -- the shoulder -- rather than the head.
That being said, because it's Wilson and because it looks bad, I suspect he gets 6 games anyway to start the season. He didn't get a game misconduct in addition to his 5 minute major, he got a match penalty. Does that mean an automatic suspension?
FWIW, after Wilson was ejected, Connolly took his spot on the RW with Kuznetsov and Ovie, and he looked pretty good. I wouldn't be surprised if he stays there at the start of the season, presuming Wilson is suspended.
Interesting view on the physics of the hit, Black. Certainly a good case to make.
My only worry is that even if this point were factual, it’s doubtful to remain in a vacuum, when the NHL considers disciplinary action.
Since there was SOME head contact, there will, obviously, be NHL review. Player safety rules will consider not only the hit, with injury, but who, his history, and one I wasn’t aware of before, the situational importance of the game.
The sad part for Willie is that each of these other factors are in the negative for his side, unfortunately for the Caps.
I LOVE Willy, and actually believe he isn’t a “dirty” player, but even the most sympathetic fan, would have to call that a boneheaded move by him, IMHO. Willie MUST carry himself more intelligently on the ice, if he is to continue his ever-improving career, period! I’m sure you would agree.
Wilson simply can’t afford to be his own worst enemy! Especially during this important growth period as a player.
Rush
