The tackle on Calgary’s Swedish defender Rasmus Andersson’s head was an overkill, says Ismo Lehkonen. However, Urheilu’s expert was surprised by the length of Andersson’s suspension.
The ice hockey league in the NHL has been the most exciting for Finns over the weekend Patrik Laine injury.
Calgary’s Swedish defender Rasmus Andersson tackled Columbus forward Laine in the final moments of the game. The tackle hit the head.
Sports expert Ismo from Lehko Andersson’s tackle was not surprising, because during the match there had already been talk in one direction and the other. Columbus won the match 3–1.
– Andersson’s pot was stuck when it got really bad. However, Calgary had budgeted two points, i.e. a win from the game, Urheilu’s expert Ismo Lehkonen assess the situation.
He considered Andersson’s act to be intentional damage.
– It was a complete exaggeration on Andersson’s part. The game was already over when he went for the return ball.
The NHL suspended Andersson for four games. The punishment is exceptional in the sense that no bans longer than three matches were given in the entire last season.
In addition to the suspension, Andersson will also lose approximately 95,000 dollars, or almost 90,000 euros, from his salary. Andersson Earns $4.55 million this season.
Lehkonen was surprised by the length of Andersson’s suspension.
– I was waiting for the NHL to issue a $5,000 fine and a reprimand. For once, the NHL showed courage and would give such a snap. They showed that such things must not happen, Lehkonen stated.
Lehkonen believes that the early season has been closely monitored in the NHL.
– Players with pucks have been tried to be removed from the game by tackling. There has certainly been a message from the decision-makers that such people should be removed and big bans should be given, Lehkonen reflected.
Canadian media Sportsnet reports also from another exceptional circumstance. According to Sportsnet, Calgary plans to appeal Andersson’s suspension.
Suspensions are rarely complained about in the NHL. Sportsnet brings up the most recent example Jason Spezza incident from December 2021. At that time, Spezza was banned for six games after hitting an opponent in the head with a knee.
After the appeal, the streak was shortened to four matches.
Calgary’s intentions do not surprise Lehko.
– Calgary needs Andersson, because he is one of their puck defenders. Calgary will definitely try to get at least two games out, Lehkonen states.
According to Columbus, Laine’s playing condition is evaluated day by day. The beginning of the season has been talked about by the Finnish star playing as a center forward. Lehkonen has already stated his desire to move Laine back to winger.
Last night Columbus defeated Minnesota 5-4 in overtime without Laine. Star newcomer Adam Fantili scored the first goal of his NHL career and played as a center forward.
– Maybe now the young boy’s self-confidence will grow and Laine could really get back to his place. I believe that Laine will return to the wing when he returns to the rink, Lehkonen hopes.