Los Angeles‘ Kyle Clifford has been fined $4,301.08, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for kneeing Minnesota’s Jordan Greenway.
The hit occurred at 9:54 of the first period during Thursday night’s game in Minnesota. As Greenway carried the puck across center ice, Clifford stuck out his left leg, making direct contact with Greenway’s right. The Wild winger’s leg swung out behind him, his momentum carrying him to the ice.
Greenway was not injured on the play.
Clifford was given a minor for tripping by referees Jon McIsaac and Francis Charron. He also picked up a fighting major for dropping the gloves with Minnesota’s Nick Seeler, who challenged Clifford in response to the hit.
Clifford is fortunate to have only been hit with a fine from Player Safety for what was a dangerous play. Though Greenway avoided injury, Clifford’s intent could have weighed more heavily on the Player Safety decision, possibly leading to a suspension. In this case, they levied only a fine.
