Tom Wilson gets six games for high-sticking Maple Leafs’ Noah Gregor
An apology worked for Maple Leafs winger Noah Gregor.
Not so much, though, for the National Hockey League department of player safety.
Hours after Gregor said Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson apologized to him for smacking him in the chops with his stick on Wednesday, the NHL sent yet another stern message to Wilson, a repeat offender.
Wilson has been suspended for six games, the NHL announced late Friday afternoon. It’s the sixth time that Wilson has been suspended by the NHL. He has also been fined three times.
“I don’t think he’s trying to slash a guy in the face,” Gregor said. “I don’t think anyone in the league is ever trying to do that. Probably a little reckless with the stick and unfortunately it got me, but I’m fine“He said sorry.
In its video explaining the suspension, NHL player safety said Wilson “swings (his stick) forward in an extremely reckless fashion.” The “forceful blow,” as the NHL called it, was “irresponsible.”
Gregor had damage to his teeth, but had not yet been to the dentist.
“It was (teeth) that were broken before, so they’re already dead,” Gregor said.
Wilson was assessed a double-minor for high-sticking on the play, which came during the third period in the Leafs’ 7-3 win.
Wilson will forfeit $161,458.32 US in salary. One of the games he will miss will be in Toronto next Thursday.
