The Calgary Flames are off to a dismal start this season, finding themselves not only languishing near the bottom of the standings but also grappling with player suspensions.
In October, Rasmus Andersson received a four-game suspension for a dangerous hit on Patrik Laine, and now they face the prospect of another prolonged suspension. Flames forward Andrew Mangiapane, in a highly questionable move, he delivered a major hit on Jared McCann, who was in a vulnerable position on the ice.
Mangiapane delivered a massive crosscheck to McCann while he lay face-down on the ice, a move that appeared entirely unwarranted. The on-ice officials concluded that Mangiapane's actions were driven by a clear intent to harm McCann, resulting in his ejection and a match penalty.
Andrew Mangiapane ejected with a match penalty for cross-checking Jared McCann
What's intriguing is that the officials explicitly stated that Mangiapane had intended to inflict harm on McCann. It appears that the league might be taking steps toward greater transparency.