Thursday, November 30, 2023

What's the Difference Between Hathaway's and Smith's Hits?

Tonight in Boston, at the 13:57 mark of the second period, San Jose Sharks forward Givani Smith boarded Brad Marchand, and for his efforts, Smith was assessed a two-minute minor penalty for boarding. Smith wasn't awarded any extra penalty minutes for his extracurricular activity, post-hit. Boston Bruins defenseman Derek Forbort took notice and grabbed Smith. Derek Forbort was assessed a two-minute minor for roughing. About five minutes later, at the 19:06 mark of the second period, Bruins forward Trent Frederic and Givani Smith engaged in hand-to-hand combat. This was a direct response to Smith's dirty hit on Brad Marchand. Since the on-ice officials aren't going to protect the players, the players will have to take matters into their own hands.  Meanwhile in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At the 16:15 mark of the first period, Flyers forward Garnet Hathaway earned himself an early shower with this dirty hit. Why was this a penalty? It was going to be an icing call. When the final box score is posted it will read Garnet Hathaway Boarding against Luke Hughes, five-minute major, and a game misconduct. I wonder if he will get a call from the NHL's Department of Player Safety. Probably not.  If you put these two plays side-by-side why is one a minor and the other a major? Both plays are dangerous and seem worthy of a five-minute major and a game misconduct.  You can see for yourself.
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