NHL Department of Player Safety announces punishment for John Tavares

During last night's game, in the early 3rd period, John Tavares stationed himself in front of the Edmonton Oilers' net, a position he frequently occupied. Rookie defender Vincent Desharnais attempted to remove Tavares, but was unsuccessful and proceeded to deliver multiple cross checks to Tavares' back. Tavares, noticing that no penalty was being called, took matters into his own hands and two-hand slashed Desharnais on his hand/wrist.

As a result, penalties were given to both Tavares and Desharnais by the referee.





However, the NHL Department of Player Safety declared that Tavares would be penalized for his actions and fined $5,000, the maximum amount permitted under the CBA. This fine corresponds to the punishment Ryan Hartman received last week for a similar offense. The announcement was made through the NHL Player Safety's Twitter account.