The National Hockey League (NHL) Player Safety Department has suspended Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Erik Gudbranson for one game for inciting a fight.
During the third period of Sunday's game against the Florida Panthers, the 31-year-old veteran tried to send a message to forward Nick Cousins. Gudbranson wrapped his arms around him before throwing him to the ground. He then delivered several strong blows to the player who was trying to protect himself on the ice.
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During his security hearing, the Ontarian said he acted in retaliation for several shoulder strikes from Cousins.
“While we recognize his frustration, players are not precluded from blatant violations of league rules regarding retaliation for hits directed at them, whether legal or not,” the NHL said in an explanatory video.
Gudbranson was chased from the game after this attack and then taunted his opponents by running towards the exit.
Playing on his eighth team in the Bettman circuit, he is on pace to post a career-best 10 points in 27 games in 2023-2024.