Connor Clifton Faces Suspension After Laying Headshot On Nick Cousins

Nick Cousins, known for his gritty style, commands respect on the ice, despite not being a universal favorite. During a game between Cousins' team, the Florida Panthers, and the Buffalo Sabres, Connor Clifton learned a tough lesson about the fine line between legal and illegal plays.

Cousins, rounding the net with his head down while going for the puck, became an unintended target. Clifton, aiming for a clean hit, mistakenly struck Cousins' head, causing him to fall and resulting in a match penalty for Clifton. This incident highlights a critical aspect of hockey: it's a fast, physical sport where even slight misjudgments can lead to serious consequences.


Players must always be aware of their surroundings to prevent dangerous situations. While physical play is a cherished part of hockey, unnecessary and unsafe hits like the one on Cousins need to be minimized.


The debate around the enforcement of rules and education on safe hitting suggests that without a shift in league policies or training, similar incidents may persist. This serves as a reminder that player safety must evolve with the game.

Source: Bladeofsteel
Clifton assessed a 5 minute major after high hit on Cousins