Senators could be looking at a devastating outcome for Matinpalo

The Ottawa Senators could be looking at a devastating outcome for defenseman Nikolas Matinpalo.

The 28-year-old left Monday’s tilt with the New Jersey Devils following a bone-crushing hit from forward Anthony Mantha.

The hit was clearly a no-no, with Mantha nailing Matinpalo from behind and into the boards. The hit warranted a five-minute major midway through the first period of the Sens’ 4-1 victory. Matinpalo left the game and did not return.

And while he’s officially listed as day-to-day, that's just the beginning. According to a notable medical expert, the outlook doesn’t look good for the Senators’ blueliner.

Renowned medical expert, Dr. Harjas Grewal, weighed in on the situation, pointing out that a separated shoulder could be the likeliest outcome of the situation. But there could also be an even worse injury, such as a broken collarbone.

A concussion could also be in play. If any of those outcomes come to fruition, the Senators could be looking at a week-to-week absence for their depth defenseman.

Mantha, for his part, did not receive a match penalty, one that he should definitely have. Since he got just the five-minute major, it’s unclear whether the NHL will look into.

Last season, Dallas Stars forward Mikko Rantanen received an automatic one-game suspension following two match penalties for boarding. One such incident led to New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov missing the season due to shoulder surgery.

If the NHL has any sense, Mantha should be on track for a suspension.

NHL must take action against Mantha for hit on Senators Matinpalo

Now is the time for the NHL to live up to its rhetoric about making the game safe. It’s far too common to hear league officials pontificate about how the NHL cracks down on egregious hits.

Well, the league has an opportunity to do it.

Last week, the NHL suspended Chicago Blackhawks forward Frank Nazar for a cheapshot on another Islanders player, captain Bo Horvat.

Now, the league has another opportunity to make things clear. Mantha did little to avoid the contract that led to the injury. And while the NHL may find some justification to preclude a suspension, there is no question that it was a dirty play.

These are the times when the NHL has to show that it’s committed to player safety. And yes, a suspension will not undo the damage. But at least it hits offenders hard, potentially acting as a deterrent and prompting players to reconsider their actions on the ice.

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