Capitals’ Kuznetsov suspended one game for high-sticking Kyle Burroughs

Kuznetsov takes the puck to the net to try to create a scoring chance with Burroughs defending at the far goalpost. The two collide as Kuznnetsov comes across the goal mouth, with Burroughs losing his stick as Kuznetsov falling to the ice.

As Kuznetsov gets back to his feet, he pulls back his stick and swings it purposefully at Burroughs, making contact with his face. This is high sticking. It is important to note that this is not a careless use of the stick. Rather, this is an intentional stick swinging towards an opponent that makes high contact.

While we recognize Kuznetsov’s assertion that he did not intend to hit Burroughs so high, players are accountable for their stick at all times. What causes this play to rise to the level of supplemental discipline is the purposeful nature of the swing and the location where it lands on the opponent.