Pittsburgh Penguins winger James Neal played in his 400th career game Thursday night, but his actions during the second period might result in him missing a few of his team’s upcoming contests.
Neal was given a minor penalty after cross-checking Detroit Red Wings forward Luke Glendening in the head. The NHL’s Department of Player Safety likely will review the hit and determine if more punishment, such as a fine or suspension, is in order.
Check out the play in the GIF below.
The worst part of this cross check is that Neal had plenty of time to make a legal body check but instead hit his opponent up high.
Neal has a history of supplemental discipline. Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, he would be considered a “repeat offender” because of his five-game suspension for kneeing Boston Bruins forward Brad Marchand in December.
