San Jose Sharks forward John Scott is probably about to have a pretty glum Christmas Eve. The big enforcer will have a phone hearing with the NHL’s Department of Player Safety for his butt-end/backhand punch on Anaheim Ducks defenseman Tim Jackman.
As a refresher, here’s the play in question:
Jackman appeared to be knocked out on the play. It looked like it might have been Scott's butt end of his stick that made contact, but the department is saying their hearing is for "punching an unsuspecting opponent" which loosely translates to "sucker punch."
Scott has been suspended a total of nine games over his career, including two this season for leaving a bench to start an altercation. He was suspended seven games for a check to the head last season while with the Buffalo Sabres.
Odds are, Scott is going to be suspended multiple games, but no more than five as he will only have a phone hearing and not an in-person. As a repeat offender and the egregious nature of the offense and the injury to Jackman, the department should consider going to the max allowed for a phone hearing.
