Nick Ritchie facing probable suspension after slashing a Ducks defender in the face
Former Maple Leaf Nick Ritchie may have found himself in some hot water with the NHL's Department of Player Safety for his actions in a game between the Arizona Coyotes and Anaheim Ducks on Friday evening.
Ritchie, 26, has been offered a hearing with Player Safety after slashing Anaheim Ducks defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk in the face after an exchange along the boards that Shattenkirk took exception to.
After putting up just 2 goals and 7 assists for 9 points in 33 games as a Leaf, Ritchie was dealt by the Leafs to the Coyotes in February, with defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin being the primary piece coming back to Toronto in the deal.
Since arriving in Arizona, Ritchie has turned his game around, recording 8 goals and 2 assists for 10 points in just 17 games. Where was that type of production in Toronto?
I find it highly unlikely that this hearing for Ritchie results in just a fine. A slash to the face, even if it's just a glancing one, is sure to warrant a multi-game suspension. There's just no reason for a play like that.
