Thornton fined, avoids suspension for hit on Perreault

Toronto Maple Leafs center Joe Thornton Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

Maple Leafs' Joe Thornton fined, avoids suspension for hit on Jets' Mathieu Perreault

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 4/23/21

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Joe Thornton probably understood he'd be getting a call from the National Hockey League's Department of Player Safety following his hit on Winnipeg Jets forward Mathieu Perreault in the third period of Thursday's game that Toronto won 5-3.

Late, cutting across the front of the body, and making the head the main point of contact. Terrible
— NHL Safety Watch (@NHLSafetyWatch) April 23, 2021

Thornton's crime did not go unpunished, but he avoided a ban.

On Friday, the department announced that Thornton was fined $3,017.24, the maximum allowable per the collective bargaining agreement, for the interference penalty against Perreault. While Thornton was assessed a minor penalty and will lose some cash, he did not receive any suspension.

His fine money will go to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

Following Thursday's action, Toronto is now atop the NHL North standings with 63 points, six ahead of Winnipeg.

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