Marchand facing lengthy suspension, offered in-person hearing
Boston Bruins winger Brad Marchand had a chip on his shoulder all night when the Bruins faced off against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday in Boston. Initially, Marchand's antics were all fun and games. Penguins goalie, Tristan Jarry went to give a puck to a fan who was sitting behind the Bruins net during a TV timeout. Marchand had other plans. He swung his stick at Jarry's in order to intercept the puck that has headed to a lucky fan.
Later on, Sidney Crosby broke his stick on the draw and was headed to the bench to get a new stick. Marchand, the pest that he is, decided to box Crosby out and interfere with him getting his stick from the trainer. Although the play was clear interference that went uncalled, Marchand was just getting under Penguins player's skin without crossing the line.
Unfortunately, late in the 3rd period of last nights game, Marchand crossed the line. Marchand approached Jarry after he froze the puck and sucker punched him. One of the unwritten rules of hockey is that you don't touch the goalie. As expected a scrum broke out. As Marchand was pulled out of the scrum and was being escorted by the referee to the dressing room, he purposely high-sticked Jarry in the mask. He was assessed a match penalty which is automatically reviewed by the NHL.
This morning, it was announced that Marchand has been offered an in-person hearing for his actions last night. Marchand has already been suspended this season, making him a repeat offender. The 33-year-old forward can be suspended for 5 games or more because of the in-person hearing status.
Although the Department of Player Safety is extremely inconsistent with their suspensions, it seems like Marchand might get the book thrown at him. The date and time of the hearing is still unknown but it is expected that Marchand will miss some time due to an inevitable suspension.
