NHL's explanation for controversial decision on Roy checking Frederic in Oilers Vegas series

NHL analysts heavily expected Roy to be suspended, as the league has cracked down on these high cross checks. Their decision to only fine him $7,812 came as a shock.

The NHL announced a hearing, and this cross check was clearly suspend-able. The reason behind not suspending Roy is the simple fact that playoff games are worth more than regular season games.

NHL fans have seen plenty of these types of cross checks get suspended this year. On the Oilers alone, Darnell Nurse and Connor McDavid were suspended for the same offence this season. McDavid was suspended 3 games, and Darnell Nurse for 1.

Given that plenty of these cross checks get suspended for multiple games, and the NHL has set precedent that playoff games are worth more, the appropriate decision should've been a one game suspension for Roy.

Some insiders believe other reasons influenced the decision to reduce an obvious suspension to a fine. The Oilers received a 5 minute power play for the cross check, and Brayden McNabb was injured by Arvidsson's play.

Oilers fans clearly aren't too happy with the call to not suspend Roy. It will significantly help Vegas for Game 3 tonight, especially if Brayden McNabb is unavailable with injury.

NHL Player Safety may have their reasons for the decision, but it still doesn't make much sense. Now the Oilers have to put the distractions behind them, and roll into Game 3 at home looking for a win.