Boeser's Big Hit, Jeannot's Ejection: A Night of Roughness in LA
The Vancouver Canucks and Los Angeles Kings went head-to-head in a heated matchup that saw some big hits and even a player ejected. The main talking point? A massive check by Canucks star Brock Boeser on Tampa Bay Lightning acquisition, Tanner Jeannot.
A Hit that Sparked Controversy:
The incident happened midway through the second period. Boeser, known for his powerful shot, delivered a clean but forceful hit on Jeannot. It was a textbook example of a hard but legal hit, with Boeser making contact shoulder-to-shoulder with Jeannot. However, the impact sent Jeannot crashing into the boards, leaving him momentarily stunned.
The Referees' Call:
The referees, after reviewing the play, decided to give Jeannot a two-minute penalty for embellishment. This sparked an immediate reaction from the Kings' bench, as they argued that Jeannot was legitimately hurt and that the call was unfair. The Kings' frustration escalated, and Tanner Jeannot himself received a game misconduct penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The Aftermath:
The incident had a ripple effect throughout the game. Both teams played with added intensity, leading to several more heated exchanges. The Canucks ultimately went on to win the game in overtime, but the night was defined by the controversial hit and the resulting penalties.
A Battle of Two Styles:
The game itself was a clash of styles. The Canucks, with their dynamic offense, dominated puck possession for much of the game. The Kings, on the other hand, relied on their physicality and defensive structure. While the game was clean overall, the Boeser hit and the subsequent ejection of Jeannot highlighted the difference in approaches.
The Bigger Picture:
This incident raises questions about the balance between physicality and player safety in the NHL. While clean hits like Boeser's are a part of the game, there's a fine line between a hard hit and a dangerous one. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting players from serious injuries, while also allowing for the physicality that makes hockey so exciting.
It remains to be seen what disciplinary action, if any, the NHL will take against either player. However, the incident served as a potent reminder that the line between a clean hit and a dangerous one can be blurred, and the NHL is constantly striving for a balance between physicality and player safety.