Red Wings Forward Facing Potential Suspension For Cross Check To Maple Leafs' Connor Dewar's Head
In a scary bit of violence on Saturday night, Red Wings forward Jonatan Berggren cross checked Connor Dewar in the face and could face potential discipline for it.
The Toronto Maple Leafs took on division rival Detroit as the team tried to continue their winning ways. Unfortunately for them, the Red Wings prevailed thanks to two goals from defenseman Jeff Petry.
There was another unfortunate event that happened which could have had big consequences. During the game, Red Wings forward Jonatan Berggren ended up cross checking then dragging Leafs defenseman Connor Dewar to the ice.
Luckily for the Maple Leafs, Dewar wasn't injured on the play, but there could be serious consequences for Berggren courtesy of the Player Safety Department.
Jonatan Berggren Facing Potential Suspension
Berggren, not normally an instigator, clearly was frustrated with how Dewar was shadowing him and wanted to try and send a message.
It was the wrong one though, and the ever iron-fisted Department of Player Safety will no doubt take a look at the infraction. While Berggren was assessed a two-minute minor on the play, clearly the intent was to go for the head and will warrant a deeper dive.
It's unlike Berggren to act maliciously on the regular, however he does have history with the same act. In 2020, during an SHL game he cross-checked an opponent in the face which warranted a three-game suspension from the league.
The NHL has this information available to them and since there is precedent for Berggren's actions, he should be given some type of discipline.
It's unknown how the NHL will react, as it seems that they will turn a blind eye to Toronto's opponents, but scrutinize Toronto heavily. The league has until 5pm on Sunday to dish out any punishment.
Thankfully Dewar wasn't hurt, and Toronto's fourth-line center is holding down the fort until David Kampf returns. So far this season he has one assist in 13 games, but is playing fantastic defense alongside Steven Lorentz.
Berggren, in his third season with Detroit has four goals and two assists this season; Detroit drafted him 33rd overall in 2018.
Fans will wait and see how the NHL reacts to Berggren's cross check, however the Leafs need to set their focus towards the Sabres on Sunday night, a team notorious for giving Toronto a tough time when they face off.
