Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly is facing an in-person hearing with NHL Player Safety following his cross-check on Ottawa Senators forward Ridly Greig. The incident took place during Saturday’s game, just six seconds before Ottawa’s victory over Toronto. Rielly received a major penalty for cross-checking and a game misconduct for his actions.
An in-person hearing is offered when a player is potentially facing a suspension of at least six games. If Rielly accepts the hearing, he will be suspended until the hearing occurs. Otherwise, the hearing will be conducted by phone.
Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe supported Rielly’s actions, considering them appropriate given the emotional intensity of the game. However, Senators interim coach Jacques Martin disagreed, describing the incident as unrelated to hockey and stemming from frustration.
Rielly, who has spent his entire 11-year NHL career with the Maple Leafs, has never been suspended before. This season, he has contributed seven goals and 36 assists, ranking fourth on the team with 43 points.
The Maple Leafs are scheduled to play the St. Louis Blues at home on Tuesday.
