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NHL releases statement regarding MacKinnon/ref incident on Monday

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Cooper Godin
February 22, 2022  (3:03 PM)
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During Monday afternoon's game between the Boston Bruins and Colorado Avalanche, Nathan MacKinnon appeared to swing his stick and make contact with an official off the face-off.

MacKinnon didn't receive a penalty on the play and many were speculating that he would receive a fine or possibly even a suspension.

Following the game, a report came out stating that the NHL would not be handing MacKinnon any supplemental discipline for the incident and now they have confirmed that in a statement on Tuesday afternoon.

"The safety of our on-ice officials, is and has always been, of paramount importance to us. In this regard, we have always exercised a zero tolerance policy when it comes to any form of abuse of our officials. Last night, one of our officials was struck by a player with his stick immediately after a face-off. We immediately investigated the incident and, having conferred with the on-ice officiating crew and the NHL Officials' Association, it has been determined that the player's intention was not to strike the official but, rather, to initiate contact with the opposing player. Given this conclusion, it has been determined that no further supplemental discipline is necessary. This decision should in no way be seen as a diminution of our steadfast conviction to protect our officials," the NHL said.