NHL: Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon had 'no intent' to slash linesman

Here is the NHL’s statement:

“The safety of our on-ice officials is, and has always been, of paramount importance to us,” the NHL’s statement read. “In this regard, we have always exercised a zero tolerance policy when it comes to any form of abuse of our officials. Last night, one of our officials was struck by a player with his stick immediately after a faceoff.

“We immediately investigated the incident and, having conferred with the on-ice officiating crew and the NHL Officials’ Association, it has been determined that the player’s intention was not to strike the official but, rather, to initiate contact with the opposing player.

“Given this conclusion, it has been determined that no further discipline is necessary. This decision should in no way be seen as a diminution of our steadfast conviction to protect our officials.”

Historically, the NHL and commissioner Gary Bettman have supported and upheld the decision of the on-ice officials involved in the incident. If they determine in their postgame reports the contact was intentional, Bettman has acted in accordance.

That is what happened in 2017 when Anaheim Ducks forward Antoine Vermette was suspended for 10 games for Category II Abuse of Officials, a ruling which was upheld by Bettman upon appeal.

Here was the Vermette incident:

Vermette was suspended even though the NHL concluded he “applied physical force without intent to injure.” From that ruling: “Rule 40.3 provides generally that the application of physical force to an Official without intent to injure is a Category II offense (resulting in a minimum ten (10) game suspension).”

With that language, MacKinnon could well have been suspended for 10 games for Monday’s incident.

On the "Daily Faceoff Show" on Tuesday, Mike McKenna and Frank Seravalli said no matter what, MacKinnon needs to be in control of his emotions and his stick. Frustration was mounting for MacKinnon, with the Avalanche trailing, 5-1, in the third period in Boston.