New Jersey Devils Forward Suspended for Cross-Checking Incident

New Jersey Devils forward Timo Meier was suspended one game following a cross-checking incident against Nashville Predators rookie forward Zach L’Heureau. Meier was given a major penalty and game misconduct in the third period of the Devils’ win over the Predators.

The NHL Department of Player Safety said Meier’s actions were intentional and that the Devils would not be allowed to play in St. Louis. He assessed that he would have to miss the upcoming contest against the St. Louis Blues.

Meier hearing was held It opened up the possibility of a suspension with the Department of Player Safety. The NHL determined that a one-game suspension was an appropriate punishment for the offense.

After a play ended, Meier and L’Heureau were briefly huddled behind the net. Meier initially checked L’Heureau’s chest, but when he made a second cross-check, he hit L’Heureau in the face.

A scuffle broke out between both teams and L’Heureau was forced to walk away from the fray. Following the incident, L’Heureau was left covered in blood and did not return to the game.

“This remains a high cross-check,” the NHL says. “A move made after the whistle has been blown that directly contacts the opponent’s head with enough force to merit additional discipline.”

The Department of Player Safety stated that Meier had no prior suspended criminal history but had been fined once before.

L’Heureau scored the second and final goal for the Predators in a 5-2 loss to the Devils.

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