Should Capitals’ Tom Wilson Have Been Suspended For This Nasty Hit?

Tom Wilson reportedly will not be suspended for his hit on Brett Seney — but should he be?

The Washington Capitals forward received a game misconduct Friday night for a blindside hit on the New Jersey Devils winger. It was yet another ugly moment for a player who already has a reputation for being one of the NHL’s dirtiest.

But the NHL has opted not to discipline Wilson, TSN’s Bob McKenzie reported Saturday.

At first glance, Wilson’s hit — which briefly knocked Seney out of the game — appeared dirty and uncalled for. But repeated viewings suggest the contact was more incidental than malicious.

Take a look for yourself:

https://twitter.com/NBCSCapitals/status/1068682259425841153

The Capitals strongly defended Wilson after the team’s 6-3 victory, and head coach Todd Reirden led the charge.

https://twitter.com/NBCSCapitals/status/1068713072255225856

Wilson understandably has taken criticism for the hit on Seney. When you cross the line as often as he does, you lose the benefit of the doubt in most situations.

But in this particular instance, it looks like the NHL got it right.