Breaking: Golden Knights’ Forward Nicolas Roy Facing Possible Suspension After Overtime Cross-Check, Potential Blow to Vegas’ Depth-heading into Must-Win Game 3
In a significant turn of events for the Vegas Golden Knights, the NHL’s Department of Player Safety has announced they are reviewing a cross-checking infraction committed by forward Nicolas Roy in Game 2 against the Edmonton Oilers. Roy is set to have a hearing tonight, following a major penalty and game misconduct for the overtime incident that saw him strike Oilers winger Trent Frederic in the mouth/jaw area. If suspended, Roy’s absence would be a major blow to Vegas’ depth, as the 28-year-old has been a key player in the postseason, averaging over 13 minutes of ice time per game. Head coach Bruce Cassidy will likely shuffle the lines, potentially moving Brett Howden to center and welcoming back Pavel Dorofeyev from injury, or inserting Cole Schwindt, if necessary, to fill the void left by Roy. The Golden Knights will have to dig deep as they prepare for a crucial Game 3, trailing the series 2-0.
Potential Suspension Looms over Golden Knights’ Nicolas Roy After Controversial Cross-Check
The NHL’s Department of Player Safety has a date with Nicolas Roy, forward for the Vegas Golden Knights, following a contentious overtime incident in Game 2 against the Edmonton Oilers. A major penalty and game misconduct marked Roy’s involvement in a play that has put a target on his back and could spell trouble for the Knights.
Recap of the Incident
With just over five minutes into overtime, Roy engaged in a board battle with Oilers’ winger Trent Frederic. In an impassioned moment, Roy lifted his stick and delivered a cross-check directly to Frederic’s mouth/jaw area. The hit, captured on video by Sportsnet, resulted in a major penalty and a game misconduct for Roy.
Frederic left the game for repairs but returned for a shift shortly after. It was Leon Draisaitl who ultimately secured a 2-0 series lead for Edmonton, capitalizing on the power play opportunity created by Roy’s penalty.
Possible Suspension Hangs over Roy’s Head
The NHL’s Department of Player Safety has announced they are reviewing Roy’s actions, with a potential suspension on the table. If handed down, a suspension could significantly impact the Golden Knights’ depth at forward. Roy has averaged 13:55 of ice time per game in the postseason and has contributed with a goal and two assists across eight games.
But his value extends beyond points. Roy has been Vegas’ best regular faceoff man, winning 59.7% of his draws. He’s also fourth on the team with a 57.3% shot-attempt share at even strength, despite sporting a minus-four rating.
Impact on the Golden Knights
In the likely event that Roy misses at least Game 3, Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy will have to shuffle the lineup. Center Brett Howden could shift to fill Roy’s role, with winger Pavel Dorofeyev potentially returning after missing the last three games with an injury. If not, forward Cole Schwindt could get the nod.
Did You Know?
Roy’s potential suspension is not the first time the NHL has taken a hard stance against dangerous plays this postseason. In the first round, the Toronto Maple Leafs’ Mitchell Marner missed two games after being suspended for an illegal check to the head of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Ross Colton. The message from the league is clear: respect for player safety will not be compromised.
FAQs
What is the length of a potential suspension for Nicolas Roy?
The length of a suspension, if handed down, will depend on various factors, including Roy’s history of similar incidents and the severity of Trent Frederic’s injury.
How will the Golden Knights adjust to Nicolas Roy’s absence?
Coach Bruce Cassidy has several options to fill Roy’s spot, including shifting Brett Howden to center, reevaluating injured winger Pavel Dorofeyev’s readiness, or giving Cole Schwindt a chance.
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