Winnipeg Jets defenseman Dustin Byfuglien has been suspended four games by the NHL’s department of player safety.
The 30-year-old cross-checked unsuspecting New York Rangers J.T. Miller in the back of the head during the Rangers’ 3-2 victory earlier in the week.
Byfuglien was not assessed a penalty and Miller continued the game. It came as a surprise for many as this type of incident has become a rarity with the league starting to crack down on similar plays.
Rangers head coach Alain Vigneault made his feelings felt on the play. Following the game, Vigneault told reporters: “[It was] violent, deliberate, could have broken his neck.
“I don't know what's going to happen, but it was one of the most vicious cross-checks I've seen this year.”
This suspension comes as a big blow to a Jets side that are barely holding on to the final wild-card spot. And now with their leading defenseman in both goals and points, the task has just become that much harder.
The physical D-man will forfeit $111,827.96 based on his annual salary.
Byfuglien will be available to return to the Jets lineup for their final game of the season on April 11th against the Calgary Flames.