Washington Capitals’ winger Tom Wilson is confronting the prospect of a lengthy suspension following an incident where he high-sticked Noah Gregor of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Wilson, notorious for his aggressive style of play, is once again under scrutiny, with the NHL Department of Player Safety offering him an in-person hearing. This suggests the league is considering a punishment exceeding five games.
During the Capitals’ recent loss to the Maple Leafs, Wilson received a double-minor penalty for high-sticking Gregor. His swinging motion with the stick, reminiscent of a baseball swing, caught Gregor across the face after a collision along the boards. Despite Wilson’s immediate expression of regret, acknowledging the penalty and anticipating supplementary discipline, his history of disciplinary infractions is undeniable. He has been suspended five times and fined three times previously, with his most recent suspension occurring in March 2021 for boarding Boston Bruins defenseman Brandon Carlo.
The potential timing of Wilson’s absence from the lineup holds significant ramifications for the Capitals, who are currently embroiled in a tight playoff race in the Eastern Conference. With only one point separating them from the second wild card spot, losing Wilson for an extended period could jeopardize their postseason aspirations.
The date and time of Wilson’s hearing with the NHL DoPS have not been disclosed, leaving the Capitals and their supporters awaiting the league’s decision. Given the recent criticisms of the department’s inconsistencies during general manager meetings, there is speculation whether Wilson will face a harsher penalty. Given the dangerous nature of the play and Wilson’s history of suspensions and fines, the outcome of the NHL DoPS’s decision could profoundly influence the team’s playoff prospects.
He was penalized in game. To punish him further for the same incident is double jeopardy. At most just put him on probation thru the end of regular season.