NHL Fines Nicolas Roy $7,813 for Playoff Cross-Check on Trent Frederic

Vegas Golden Knights forward Nicolas Roy was fined the maximum allowable amount of $7,812.50 by the NHL for delivering a dangerous cross-check to the face of Edmonton Oilers forward Trent Frederic during overtime in Game 2 of their playoff series, but he avoided suspension. The incident, which resulted in Roy's ejection with a major penalty and game misconduct, sparked significant backlash from fans and analysts who felt the punishment was insufficient given the severity and timing of the hit. The NHL's Department of Player Safety cited the limits of the Collective Bargaining Agreement as the reason for the fine without suspension, a decision that frustrated Oilers supporters seeking stricter accountability. Despite the controversy, some argued that such physicality is part of playoff hockey's intense nature, though many saw the cross-check as a reckless act that warranted harsher consequences. The series continues with Game 3 in Edmonton, as debates about player safety and disciplinary standards remain a hot topic among the NHL community.