Brad Marchand criticizes the league's decision to suspend him for punch/high stick on Jarry
Some news to report in the Atlantic Division on Friday, as Boston Bruins forward Brad Marchand had a chance to speak with the media regarding the 6-game suspension he had received on February 8th during a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The incident that resulted in Marchand's suspension occurred at the end of the game, with about 24 seconds remaining. Marchand punched Penguins goaltender Tristan Jarry in the head and followed that up by spearing him in the chest/mask on his way by the crease as he was ushered off by the officials.
Marchand views the suspension as unnecessary and excessive and has stated that he has had conversations with the NHLPA about how to proceed. Since the suspension exceeds 5 games, Marchand will have the ability to appeal the suspension if he so chooses.
"Was it stupid? Of course it was stupid," Marchand said on Friday of his actions earlier this week. "I'm not denying that. I absolutely should not have done it. But suspension worthy? I don't think so.
"These plays were not going injure Jarry. No potential injury on that play. He was very well protected. The fact that it's six games is based on history, not on the play," Marchand concluded.
Marchand is holds the record for individual NHL suspensions.
