27
Calgary Flames’ Connor Zary Suspended for Two Games After Dangerous Hit on Vancouver Canucks’ Elias Pettersson
| Event | Details | Impact | Additional Insights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incident Overview | During a heated game between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks on March 12, 2025, Elias Pettersson delivered a monstrous hit on Nazem Kadri. In response, Connor Zary retaliated with a high check to the back of Pettersson’s head, which has since led to the suspension. | This incident has resulted in a two-game suspension for Zary, enforced by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety (DoPS). |
The suspension highlights the level of intensity in the tradition of the longstanding ‘ rival between the Flames and the Canucks |
| Specific Details of the Suspension | Zary was penalized for using an extended elbow to deliver a late, high, retaliatory hit. The NHL’s DoPS video analysis revealed Zary’s recklessness, as he tracked Pettersson, raised his elbow, and made significant head contact. This aggressive action has been classified as elbowing, which violates the NHL’s rules. | Zary will miss two crucial games: Friday’s match against the Colorado Avalanche and Monday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. | Forfeits $8,993.06 under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. |
| Injury Impact | Elias Pettersson remained in the game for some time but did not return after the second intermission. He has since been evaluated by the medical staff, though his status remains unclear. | Pettersson’s 2024-25 season performances have been noteworthy. Through the 2025 season, Pettersson has consistently contributed with solid ice time and assists, averaging 12:31 minutes of play and contributing 2 assists in 15 games. | The hit has sparked much debate in the sports world, with fans and analysts weighing in on the legality and necessity of Zary’s response. |
| Player Impact and Performance | Initially struggling to get back to his pre-injury form, Zary’s suspension is a difficult blow as he recovers from a prior knee injury which kept him out of nine games. | Despite his struggles, Zary has more pressing issues as he didn’t fared that well in 2025 playing in 49 contests this season with 12 goals and 24 points of solid performances made. | This past performance gives a hint at the long career challenge he might have to surmount in his next 2025-2026 shows, with every game counting, Toronto is a marquee matchup, and Zary’s absence will be keenly felt. |
| Future Impact and Suspensions | Zary expects to return to the game against the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday. The suspension, though harsh in terms of recent performance, is a stark reminder of hockey’s rule application. | Returning to the Devils is essential, given that the team is in the midst of a difficult period. | Following his harsh return against the New Jersey Devils, Calgary Flames will bring closer two teams essentially on equal terms in terms of competitiveness. |
| Head Coach Rick Tocchet’s Views on the Injury | Following Pettersson’s injury and Zary’s suspension, Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet commented on the uncertainty surrounding their team after the game. | With further intelligent nerves, Coach Tocchet takes full optimisation on strategic game tactics and a strong will to transform team likelihoods on resulting recoginitions. | Such nuances leave room for predicting future performances and transformations. |