There was an extremely scary moment in New Jersey on Saturday afternoon as Devils defenseman John Moore needed to be stretchered off the ice after getting hit into the boards by Capitals forward Tom Wilson.
https://twitter.com/NJDevils/status/815261451896180737
Moore was moving after the hit, but had to be assisted off the ice by trainers.
There was no penalty on the play, but Wilson’s intent is definitely something the league will look at. From multiple camera angles, it appeared Wilson finished his check on Moore, despite seeing his numbers as he approached him. Yes, Moore turned slightly, but Wilson thwarted Moore against the boards when he was in a vulnerable position. Considering he had to be stretchered off the ice and Wilson’s prior history, I wouldn’t at all be shocked if Wilson received a suspension.
Hopefully, Moore isn’t too banged up from the hit and can make a quick return to the ice. It’s certainly not the way he intended on spending his New Year’s. As for Wilson, it’s great to have edge in your game and play tough and physical, but when you do so at the risk of other players’ health, you shouldn’t be on the ice. He should know better.
