Thomas Larkin facing trial for four-year-old hit that ended Daniel Paille's career

A court battle will start on Monday between Thomas Larkin and Daniel Paille over a hit four years ago that ended Paille's hockey career. While the two played in different leagues, their teams met at the Champions Hockey League tournament back in 2017, which featured teams from various European hockey leagues. Larkin, a former draft pick of the Columbus Blue Jackets who never made the NHL, blindsided Paille with a hit to the head. Here's the hit in question:

Larkin was given a four game suspension for his actions. Paille, who played close to 600 games in the NHL with Buffalo, Boston and the New York Rangers, would never play again. The hit would be reported to police and Larkin was charged with assault. It appears he'll also be facing a civil trial as lawyers for Paille are also demanding compensation from him and his former team (Mannheim Eagles) for medical expenses and lost income. A judge in Sweden will determine if there will be two separate trials, or whether one will combine both the criminal charge and the civil case.

Larkin, through his lawyer, is denying any wrongdoing, saying he did not intend to hurt Paille and his injuries were an unfortunate consequence of a hockey play. It is possible that Larkin could be found not criminally responsible, but still lose the civil suit and have to pay Paille. A judge is expected to determine by the end of next week how the trial, or trials will proceed.

Related stories: FORMER NHLER DANIEL PAILLE DISCUSSES HIT THAT ENDED HIS CAREER AND COURT CASE AGAINST THOMAS LARKIN

THOMAS LARKIN TAKES STAND AND GIVES HIS SIDE IN HIS TRIAL OVER ENDING DANIEL PAILLE'S CAREER

This would not be the first time someone faced criminal charges for something that took place in a professional hockey game. Todd Bertuzzi was charged with criminal assault causing bodily harm after sucker-punching Steve Moore during an NHL game in 2004. Bertuzzi was sentenced to one year probation and 80 hours of community service. He also settled a lawsuit from Moore out of court. Marty McSorley received 18 months probation after he was found guilty of assault with a weapon for hitting Donald Brashear over the head with his stick in 2000.

Source: Expressen.se

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