Canadiens' Chris Wideman suspended one game for headbutting Bruins' Erik Haula
In the third period of Wednesday's game between the Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins that Boston won going away 5-1, Canadiens defenseman Chris Wideman let his emotions get the best of him when he delivered a clear headbutt to Bruins forward Erik Haula.
Wideman earned a minor penalty for roughing and a minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct, and his actions will also cost him some playing time and a bit of cash.
The NHL's Department of Player Safety announced Thursday that Wideman has been suspended for one game without pay for his crime.
"It is important to note that Wideman’s helmet makes clear, intentional, and direct contact with Haula’s face and head," the league explained in an accompanying video, per Gavin Lee of Pro Hockey Rumors. "This is not an occasion where two players accidentally or inadvertently collide in a scrum. Rather, this is an unacceptable and intentional headbutt delivered to an opponent’s face with some force."
Wideman is not a repeat offender, which likely helped his cause in this matter. He loses $3,750, and that forfeited money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.
He will be sidelined for Thursday's matchup at the Chicago Blackhawks.
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