Leafs' Muzzin avoids discipline for controversial incident with Red Wings' Mantha
When fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs are shocked that one of their players did not get suspended or fined for an on-ice incident, then you know the NHL Department of Player Safety has made a questionable decision.
Maple Leafs defenceman Jake Muzzin will not face any punishment for his incident on Saturday night with Red Wings forward Anthony Mantha.
Jeff Blashill says Anthony Mantha is on IR, will miss at least through Saturday game. Says NHL chose not to take action on Muzzin hit.
— Helene St. James (@HeleneStJames) December 22, 2019
Mantha will be heading to the Injury Reserve list after getting injured during the conflict with Muzzin.
During the dying moments of the game, the Red Wings forward appears to initially instigate Muzzin into the tussle, but the defenceman dangerously tosses Mantha to the ice.
Mantha and Muzzin scrumming. Muzzin grabbed Mantha's face, swept his leg, and threw him backwards onto the ice. Mantha hit his head hard. Down for a long time.
Slewfoot/leg sweep/whatever. Dangerous and stupid. #LGRW #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/B9L5ELughl— Ryan Hana (@RyanHanaWWP) December 22, 2019
From every angle, Muzzin appears to clutch onto the face of the 25-year-old forward and quickly brings him down, injuring him in the process.
There is no timeline for his return, but the last-place Red Wings will miss his presence in the offence. Through 29 games this season, Mantha has 12 goals and 24 points.
The 30-year-old Muzzin has three goals and 13 points in 36 games.
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