Ryan Hartman Suspended 10 Games for Roughing Tim Stützle

The video accompanying the ruling noted that Hartman took his free hand and used his body weight to drive an unsuspecting player onto the ice intentionally. Hartman said the fall was accidental and the arm was being used to gain his balance. The Department of Player Safety said they “disagree”. They noted his history of being fined and suspended every 60 games in his NHL career.

He has been a repeat offender for three straight suspensions. As a repeat offender, Hartman got hit with a stiffer punishment and will forfeit $487,804.88 in salary during his suspension. This marks his fifth career suspension, further cementing his reputation for on-ice misconduct. Despite the lengthy ban, he will be allowed to remain on the Wild’s 23-man roster during his absence.

Hartman Can Appeal the 10-Game Suspension to the NHL

Hartman has 48 hours to decide whether he will appeal the suspension. If he chooses to do so, the case would first go to NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, and if necessary, to an independent arbitrator. If the suspension stands, Hartman will be eligible to return on March 9. The NHL, could add more time to his suspension, so an appeal is not without risk.

This latest incident adds to Hartman’s growing disciplinary record, means the NHL DoPS is not longer messing around. If Hartman gets suspended for anything, it could be 20 games or more.

The Wild will now have to adjust their lineup without Hartman.