Showing posts with label Trent Frederic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Trent Frederic. Show all posts

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.