Former Chicago Blackhawk facing lengthy suspension

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Sam Walker
March 31, 2024 (12:08)

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Minnesota Wild forward Ryan Hartman could be facing a significant suspension after a recent incident during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Near the end of the game, Hartman received a 10-minute misconduct and was ejected from the game.

While the cameras missed the interaction, it's become a focal point.

Reports from Minnesota Wild insider Mike Russo suggest that the NHL's Department of Player Safety is considering a mandatory three-game suspension for Hartman's actions. Allegedly, Hartman threw his stick toward an official after being on the wrong end of an uncalled high stick from Golden Knights defenseman Noah Hanifin.

The NHL rule 40.4 regarding abuse of officials is clear-cut, stating that any player who physically demeans or threatens an official:

"Any player who, by his actions, physically demeans an official or physically threatens an official by (but not limited to) throwing a stick or any other piece of equipment or object at or in the general direction of an official, shooting the puck at or in the general direction of an official, spitting at or in the general direction of an official, or who deliberately applies physical force to an official solely for the purpose of getting free of such an official during or immediately following an altercation shall be suspended for not less than three (3) games."

It's a tough situation for the former Chicago Blackhawk Hartman, and the Department of Player Safety will have to weigh in on the matter to determine the appropriate action.