During Saturday’s preseason game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Nashville Predators, tensions ran high and resulted in two Lightning players being suspended and a total of $125,000 in fines being handed out. The game, which was meant to be a friendly warm-up before the regular season, turned into a heated and physical battle between the two teams.
The first player to be suspended was Lightning forward Pat Maroon, who received a three-game suspension for an illegal hit on Predators defenseman Roman Josi. Maroon, known for his physical play, delivered a late hit to Josi that left the Predators player shaken and resulted in a five-minute major penalty for Maroon. After reviewing the hit, the NHL’s Department of Player Safety deemed it to be a violation of the rules and handed down the suspension, much to the disappointment of Lightning fans.
The second player to be suspended was Lightning defenseman Luke Witkowski, who received a one-game suspension for leaving the bench during an altercation between Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak and Predators forward Yakov Trenin. According to the NHL’s rulebook, players are not allowed to leave the bench during an on-ice altercation, and Witkowski’s actions violated this rule. While it may have been a moment of instinct and wanting to defend his teammate, Witkowski’s decision ultimately resulted in a suspension that will see him miss the Lightning’s first game of the regular season.
In addition to the suspensions, the NHL also handed out a total of $125,000 in fines to both teams. The Lightning received a $100,000 fine, while the Predators received a $25,000 fine. The fines were a result of the two teams’ failure to control their players and maintain discipline on the ice. The NHL has made it clear that they will not tolerate any form of violence or unnecessary aggression, especially during preseason games.
While the suspensions and fines may seem like a setback for the Lightning, the team is taking it in stride and using it as a learning experience. Head coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the mistakes made by Maroon and Witkowski, but also expressed his disappointment in the team’s lack of discipline during the game. He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and staying within the rules, especially as the regular season approaches.
Despite the negative events that occurred during Saturday’s preseason game, there were also plenty of positives for the Lightning. The team showed determination and grit on the ice, with players like Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov showcasing their skills and proving why they are one of the top teams in the league. The Lightning also welcomed back defenseman Victor Hedman, who had been recovering from an injury, and he made a strong impact in his first game back.
While preseason games may not have the same intensity as regular-season games, they are still an important part of the team’s preparation for the upcoming season. It is a time for players to fine-tune their skills, build chemistry with their teammates, and work on strategies for the season ahead. The Lightning are using this experience as a learning opportunity and are determined to come back stronger and more disciplined in the regular season.
In conclusion, the suspensions and fines handed out after Saturday’s preseason game may have been a disappointment for the Tampa Bay Lightning, but the team is taking it in stride and using it as motivation to improve. With their strong roster and determination to succeed, the Lightning are ready to take on the upcoming season and show the league why they are a force to be reckoned with. As fans, let us continue to support our team and have faith that they will bounce back from this setback and come out even stronger. Go Lightning!
