NHL Player Safety Finally Hands Out a Punishment to Matthew Tkachuk

Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk has been fined the maximum $5,000 allowed under the CBA for cross-checking Boston Bruins' Garnet Hathaway during Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Despite the fine, many believe that Tkachuk should have been suspended for the dirty hit on Hathaway.

During the game, Tkachuk's hit initially resulted in a 2-minute penalty. However, after review, the fine was issued. Video footage of the hit can be found here:


When asked about the incident, Tkachuk defended his actions, saying, "It's kinda one of those pretty chippy games. If you get cross-checked go down, try to draw a penalty. It seems that's the way this game is kinda going."


Hathaway was slow to get up after the hit, and it is unclear whether he will play in Game 5. Tkachuk's stick appeared to strike Hathaway in an unprotected area, causing him to collapse to the ice. Many believe that Tkachuk was fortunate to only receive a fine, and that a suspension would have been more appropriate for such a dangerous hit.