Evgeny Artyukhin: Dirty Hit or Make Up Suspension?

(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Evgeny Artyukhin has been suspended for three games by the NHL.  The suspension comes after a hit to defenseman Matt Niskanen of the Dallas Stars on Wednesday night.

It seems that lately suspensions are more directly related to injuries, and not so much to actual actions on the ice.  Therefore, it seems likely that Evgeny Artyukhin would be suspended for this hit, as Matt Niskanen went directly to the locker room following the play.  

The Anaheim Ducks have been on constant "bully" watch since their Stanley Cup Championship season in 2007, and many were hoping the magnified look at their play would be reduced following the departure of Chris Pronger during the offseason. 

However, many knew that the addition to the team in the form of repeat offender Artyukhin would be a cause for concern once again.

I don't think this hit is a case for suspension. 

The infraction at hand is slew footing.  The idea that Artyukhin purposefully took Niskanen's feet out from underneath him in a compromising and vulnerable position. 

I disagree.  I think it was a solid hit on a player moving along the boards.  His forward motion is more likely to have caused him to fall backwards, not to mention an overpowering hit from a guy who is 6'5" and over 250 pounds. 

There was no penalty on the play. 

The magnifying glasses are out again.

What are your opinions?

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?