Screencap via Rogers Sportsnet

It didn’t take very long for tonight’s game against the Los Angeles Kings to become a little out of hand. In the first minute of the game, Kings defenceman Brayden McNabb decided that he was going to focus on shutting down Henrik Sedin, with a method that’s a little unorthodox in this day and age.

As you can see, McNabb makes clear, intentional contact with Sedin’s head using his elbow; a reckless and dangerous decision. The referees, who likely did not see the incident, did not penalize McNabb for the play, leading to the Canucks taking care of matters with their own hands. Alex Biega went after McNabb immediately, and while they didn’t go into full-on fight mode, Brandon Prust took care of that responsibility a few minutes later.

As well, Andrey Pedan dropped the mitts with Jordan Nolan, picking up his first NHL fighting major. Combine that with Bo Horvat and Drew Doughty pushing and shoving amongst each other, and you can see that the wheels are in motion for a physical game.

Back to the hit; while there wasn’t a penalty, you have to think that the NHL Department of Player Safety will, at the very least, give it a look. Whether a fine or suspension comes out of it is anyone’s guess, though such an outcome shouldn’t be overly surprising. Thankfully, Henrik was not (further) hurt on the play and has continued to play. Midway through the first period, the two teams are tied at zeroes.