Devils' Timo Meier Suspended For Cross-Checking Predators' Zachary L'Heureux

NEWARK, N.J. -- On Tuesday morning, NHL Player Safety announced that New Jersey Devils forward Timo Meier would have a hearing for cross-checking against Nashville Predators forward Zachary L'Heureux during Monday Night's game.

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The incident occurred at the 12:17 mark of the third period. The Swiss forward received a major penalty and game misconduct on the play.

The Hockey News received confirmation that the hearing would be conducted via phone call, and in the afternoon, NHL Player Safety revealed that Meier has been suspended for one game for his cross-check.

The below explanation is given:

"It is important to note that Meier is in control of this play at all times and is attempting to deliver a second cross-check to an opponent after the whistle. This is not a case in which two players are mutually engaged with their sticks up high. Nor is it a case in which the blow rides up a player's body before making contact with the head.

"Players are responsible for their stick at all times and are not excused from their actions just because a blow lands in an unintended place on the opponent or with unintended force. This remains a high cross-check delivered after the whistle was blown that makes direct contact with an opponent's head with sufficient force to merit supplemental discipline."

During Monday night's postgame press conference, head coach Sheldon Keefe was asked about the penalty.

"You have to show some restraint," he said. "He thinks he is in a physical confrontation there. [...] There is no intent there from Timo. He is in a battle and competing in that spot. You have to show a little more restraint and control for sure in any time of the game, but certainly in the third period when it is a two-goal game like that."

Meier has only been fined in his career. This is his first suspension.

The Devils currently have two extra forwards on their roster: Nolan Foote and Kurtis MacDermid. The club's next game is Wednesday when it hosts the St. Louis Blues at Prudential Center.

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