The Washington Capitals remain in the running for a playoff spot with 13 games remaining in their schedule. However, forward Tom Wilson will only be available to assist them until April 4 due to his recent suspension. Wilson underwent an in-person hearing via Zoom videoconference with the NHL Department of Player Safety on Friday afternoon, resulting in a six-game suspension for a high stick to the head of Toronto Maple Leafs forward Noah Gregor. This incident occurred on Wednesday, March 20, marking one of the lengthiest suspensions handed out by the league this season.
Wilson has the option to challenge the decision by appealing to NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, and if he and the NHL Players’ Association opt to escalate the matter, they can take it to a neutral arbitrator.
“NHL Player Safety described the play as Wilson pulling his stick back and then forcefully swinging it forward, making direct and forceful contact with Gregor’s face in an extremely reckless manner,” stated the NHL in the video announcing Wilson’s suspension. “Wilson’s actions in this instance were entirely within his control, irresponsible, and unrelated to any legitimate hockey action.”
“He bears responsibility for the hazardous outcome of the play, which involved a forceful blow to an opponent’s head, perpetrated by a player with a significant history of disciplinary action.”
Tom Wilson’s history of misconduct continues to expand.
Wilson’s extensive disciplinary history significantly influenced his latest suspension, sidelining him for the next six games. He’ll be eligible to return just in time for the match against the Pittsburgh Penguins on April 4. This marks Wilson’s sixth suspension by the league and his first since 2021.
The suspension means Wilson will be off the ice for nearly two weeks, during which he’ll forfeit $161,458 in salary, as confirmed by the NHL, with the funds directed to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. According to Chris Johnston of The Athletic, Wilson has already lost “more than $1.4 million” in career earnings due to his suspensions.
Reflecting on the incident, Gregor commented to reporters on Friday, March 22, two days after the play, stating, “Probably a little reckless with the stick, but I’m fine. I don’t think he’s trying to slash a guy in the face. I don’t think anyone in the league is ever trying to do that.”