Occasionally, hockey officiating can be dubious, and tonight's game between the New York Islanders and the Toronto Maple Leafs is no exception, with inconsistent calls from the officials. One clear example is the dangerous hit that Brock Nelson received in the end of the first period.
Another Officiating Error Under Scrutiny After Dangerous Hit On Brock Nelson
Near the end of the first period, Maple Leafs forward Noel Acciari sent Islanders captain Brock Nelson hard into the boards on a debatable play.
There are valid points on both sides. Acciari approaches the hit relatively slowly, seemingly having enough time to stop if he decides to. However, Nelson turns at the last moment, putting himself in a vulnerable position and exposing his head and neck.
At some point, we need to hold the player turning into the boards just as accountable as the one delivering the hit.
No penalty was called on the play, leading to divided opinions. Arguments could be made for both sides.
Nelson didn't came back in the game. This could weight in the issue in case the Safety Department decides to take a closer look at the dangerous hit.