Nicolas Roy facing devastating punishment from NHL Player Safety for hit on Oilers Trent Frederic
Photo credit: Sportsnet
The second round series between Edmonton and Vegas is beginning to get heated, but Nicolas Roy took it much too far with a random, vicious cross check on Trent Frederic.
NHL Player Safety has severely cracked down on these high cross checks in recent years, with Darnell Nurse's last suspension a prime example. Roy should be expecting a suspension.
Vegas defenceman Nicolas Roy facing playoff suspension for brutal cross check
While battling for a puck along the boards in a routine play, Roy deliberately brought his arms up to drive his stick into Frederic's face. Oilers coach Knoblauch was yelling for a 5 minute major penalty, and the refs agreed.
It was a senseless, reactionary, and dangerous play from Roy. Even if it wasn't fully intentional, he has to control his stick.
Frederic was forced to leave the game for repairs on his nose, but thankfully was able to return to the game. Edmonton wasn't able to convert on the 5 minute powerplay, but won shortly after against a more tired Vegas team in overtime.
Roy suspension will decimate Vegas Golden Knights blue line in Game 3
If the NHL has any consistency, Roy should be suspended for one game. Two would be appropriate in regular season, but one in playoffs is worth more.
If Roy is suspended, then Vegas will be on the brink in Game 3. Missing Nicolas Roy, as well as potentially missing Brayden McNabb with injury, would be devastating to their defence against an elite Oilers offence.
Edmonton needs to seize the opportunity on home ice to take a commanding series lead, and potentially even end the second round in Alberta.
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