NHL star Connor McDavid has been suspended for three games after cross-checking Vancouver’s Conor Garland in the face during a game on Saturday. Edmonton Oilers captain Sidney Crosby, who has also faced similar abuse throughout his career, believes that the suspension is warranted. However, Crosby added that it’s “hard to say how bad it was from the angle that was available,” and noted that McDavid may have been hit with his glove instead of stick.
The incident has sparked a debate over cross-checking rules in hockey, with many questioning whether the suspension is too harsh or not severe enough. Crosby, who has been the victim of similar incidents, understands McDavid’s frustration and believes that retaliation can be justified in certain situations.
“The one time you see that, you probably didn’t see nine hits that Connor took,” Crosby said. “When you retaliate, you make the highlights.” However, Crosby also acknowledged that emotions can get the best of players in the heat of the moment.
The suspension has also highlighted the challenges faced by great players throughout hockey history who have been subjected to abuse and retaliation without always receiving the benefit of the doubt from officials. Next month, both McDavid and Crosby will represent Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, with McDavid expected to be viewed as one of the world’s greatest current players.
Crosby has never been disciplined by the NHL, but has dropped the gloves in frustration 10 times throughout his career. The incident with McDavid is a rare example of Crosby being involved in an incident that led to discipline.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6076456/2025/01/20/sidney-crosby-comments-connor-mcdavid-suspension-nhl