Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid has been suspended two games for an illegal check to the head of New York Islanders defenseman Nick Leddy, the Department of Player Safety announced Friday.
First suspension of McDavid’s career coming?pic.twitter.com/FwmIAXTwsv
— NHL Nosebleed (@NHL_Nosebleed) February 22, 2019
McDavid committed the hit in the first period of Thursday's overtime victory and was assessed a two-minute penalty.
The 22-year-old had never previously been suspended in his NHL career. McDavid will miss matchups with the Anaheim Ducks and Nashville Predators before becoming eligible to return for a marquee showdown versus his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs on Feb. 27.
Oilers CEO Bob Nicholson released the following statement in the aftermath of the suspension announcement:
(2/2) "We strongly disagree with the decision & it is difficult to accept for our team & most important our fans at this critical point in our season. We will unequivocally support Connor as he explores his options."
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 22, 2019
McDavid recorded two points in the contest - including the overtime winner - to bring his total to 85 in 58 games this season. Along with being forced to sit, the center will forfeit just over $134,000 in salary, according to TSN's Frank Seravalli.
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