Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid has been suspended three games for cross-checking Vancouver Canucks forward Conor Garland in the head. The incident occurred late in the Canucks’ 3-2 win over the Oilers on Saturday, and McDavid was promptly thrown out of the game with a match penalty for intent to injure.
McDavid had a hearing with the NHL’s Department of Player Safety on Monday, and shortly after, his suspension was announced. This is the second time McDavid has been suspended in his 10-year career, with the first being a two-game suspension in 2019 for an illegal check to the head.
The suspension will cost McDavid $195,312 in salary over the next three games. He will miss the Oilers’ game against the Washington Capitals on Tuesday, their rematch against the Canucks on Thursday, and their game against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday. McDavid is eligible to return to the lineup next Monday when the Oilers take on the Seattle Kraken.
McDavid has been sensational this season, with 65 points (20 goals, 45 assists) across 43 games. The three-time Hart Trophy winner has been a key factor in the Oilers’ success, with the team sitting second in the Pacific Division just one point behind the Vegas Golden Knights.
