Hagel Suspended One Game for Hit on Barkov

Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brandon Hagel has been suspended for one game after delivering a forceful, illegal hit to Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov during Game 2 of their playoff series. The hit, which occurred when Barkov was not in possession of the puck, resulted in a five-minute major penalty for interference and left Barkov unable to return for the remainder of the game. The NHL Department of Player Safety emphasized that Barkov was an 'unsuspecting opponent' and ineligible to be checked, citing head contact and the severity of the hit as reasons for the suspension. Hagel, who has no previous suspensions, argued he anticipated Barkov would play the puck, but the league determined he was responsible for avoiding such a hit. Barkov's status for Game 3 remains uncertain as he has not yet been cleared by the Panthers' medical staff. The Panthers currently lead the series 2-0.