The Top 10 Longest Suspensions in NHL History
By Jayson Panganiban December 14, 2023 05:12
Ice hockey is known for its physicality and intensity, but sometimes players take it too far and engage in actions that warrant severe consequences. The National Hockey League (NHL) has a long history of handing out suspensions to players who cross the line. These suspensions serve as a deterrent to prevent dangerous plays and protect the safety of the players on the ice. In this article, we will explore the top 10 longest suspensions in NHL history, shedding light on the most significant disciplinary actions ever taken by the league.
1. Marty McSorley - 23 Games
Marty McSorley, a former NHL defenseman, received the longest suspension in league history for an on-ice incident. In a game between the Boston Bruins and the Vancouver Canucks on February 21, 2000, McSorley struck Canucks forward Donald Brashear on the head with his stick, causing Brashear to fall and hit his head on the ice. McSorley was charged with assault with a weapon, and the league suspended him for 23 games.
2. Chris Simon - 30 Games
Chris Simon, known for his physical style of play, received a 30-game suspension during the 2007-2008 NHL season. Simon, playing for the New York Islanders at the time, deliberately stomped on the leg of Pittsburgh Penguins forward Jarkko Ruutu. This act of aggression resulted in a lengthy suspension, highlighting the league's commitment to cracking down on dangerous behavior.
3. Todd Bertuzzi - 20 Games
Todd Bertuzzi's name is synonymous with one of the most infamous incidents in NHL history. On March 8, 2004, Bertuzzi, then playing for the Vancouver Canucks, attacked Colorado Avalanche forward Steve Moore from behind, punching him in the head and driving him face-first into the ice. Moore suffered multiple injuries, including a broken neck, concussion, and facial lacerations. The league suspended Bertuzzi for 20 games, which was carried over to the following season due to the NHL lockout.
4. Dale Hunter - 21 Games
Dale Hunter, a former NHL forward, received a 21-game suspension during the 1993-1994 season for a blindside hit on New York Islanders forward Pierre Turgeon. After Turgeon scored a goal, Hunter hit him from behind, causing a shoulder injury and leaving Turgeon sidelined for the playoffs. Hunter's suspension sent a strong message about the league's commitment to protecting players from dangerous hits.
5. Raffi Torres - 41 Games
Raffi Torres, a forward known for his aggressive style of play, received a 41-game suspension during the 2015-2016 NHL season. Playing for the San Jose Sharks at the time, Torres delivered a high and late hit to Anaheim Ducks forward Jakob Silfverberg. The league took a firm stance against Torres' repeat offenses, sending a clear message that dangerous plays would not be tolerated.
6. Tom Wilson - 20 Games
Tom Wilson, a current player for the Washington Capitals, received a 20-game suspension during the 2018-2019 NHL season for an illegal hit. Wilson delivered a blindside hit to St. Louis Blues forward Oskar Sundqvist, resulting in a concussion and a shoulder injury. The league's decision to suspend Wilson for a significant number of games demonstrated its determination to prioritize player safety.
7. Zac Rinaldo - 8 Games
Zac Rinaldo, a forward known for his physicality, received an 8-game suspension during the 2015-2016 NHL season. Playing for the Boston Bruins at the time, Rinaldo delivered a late hit to Tampa Bay Lightning forward Cedric Paquette. The league's decision to suspend Rinaldo for multiple games conveyed a strong message about the importance of respecting player safety.
8. Chris Pronger - 8 Games
Chris Pronger, a former NHL defenseman, received an 8-game suspension during the 2007-2008 NHL season. Pronger, playing for the Anaheim Ducks, stomped on the leg of Vancouver Canucks forward Ryan Kesler. This act of aggression resulted in a suspension that served as a reminder that dangerous actions would not be tolerated.
9. Aaron Downey - 20 Games
Aaron Downey, a former NHL enforcer, received a 20-game suspension during the 2001-2002 NHL season. Downey, playing for the Dallas Stars at the time, left the bench and engaged in an on-ice altercation with Colorado Avalanche forward Peter Forsberg. Leaving the bench during a fight is a severe offense, and the league punished Downey accordingly.
10. Shawn Thornton - 15 Games
Shawn Thornton, a former NHL forward known for his physical play, received a 15-game suspension during the 2013-2014 NHL season. Playing for the Boston Bruins, Thornton attacked Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik, punching him and causing a concussion. The league's decision to suspend Thornton for 15 games reinforced its commitment to protecting players from dangerous acts of violence.
The NHL has a strict policy when it comes to player safety and discipline. The top 10 longest suspensions in NHL history serve as a testament to the league's commitment to maintaining a safe and fair playing environment. These suspensions send a clear message that dangerous actions will not be tolerated and serve as a deterrent to prevent future incidents.
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