New York Islanders forward Jonathan Drouin has picked up the first NHL suspension of the season for a cross-check to the face of Pittsburgh’s Connor Dewar.

The incident came with 15 seconds remaining in Thursday’s game between the Islanders and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Players from both teams came together near the Pens’ goal crease. Some stickwork and shoving between Drouin and Dewar quickly escalated as Drouin delivered a cross-check to Dewar’s head, knocking him to the ice. 

Referees Gord Dwyer and Mitch Dunning called a major penalty on Drouin for the cross-check, which they confirmed via review. 

Now, the NHL’s Department of Player Safety has levied additional punishment, suspending the Isles’ winger for one game.

 

 

From Player Safety: 

A gathering of players develops at the Penguins’ net front after the whistle is blown to stop play. Drouin and Dewar come together and exchange light stick work, with Drouin slashing Dewar and Dewar shoving Drouin in return. Then Drouin raises his stick with both hands and delivers a high, forceful blow with the stick that makes direct contact with Dewar’s head causing him to fall to the ice. This is cross-checking.
 
It is important to note that while sticks occasionally ride up in opponent’s body or equipment and land higher than intended during a net front battle, this is not such a case. In this instance, play is stopped and there is no hockey purpose for Drouin’s cross check. While we have heard Drouin’s assertion that he does not intend to strike Dewar in this manner, players are responsible for their sticks at all times. Drouin is in control of his stick and chooses to raise it to an unacceptable height to deliver a blow that lands directly on his opponent’s face with sufficient force to merit supplemental discipline.
 
Drouin will will the Islanders’ home opener against the Washington Capitals on Saturday. 
 
This is Drouin’s first NHL suspension. He has been fined previously, picking up a $5000 fine in 2022 for cross-checking Dallas Stars forward Tyler Seguin. 
 
 
Drouin forfeits $20,833.33 in salary as a result of the suspension.