In a recent game, Ottawa Senators' captain Brady Tkachuk was facing a one-game suspension and coach D.J. Smith a $10,000 fine for an altercation with Buffalo Sabres' Alex Tuch due to a broken instigator rule within the last few minutes of the game.
However, recent inside sources suggest that the NHL's Department of Player Safety has chosen not to suspend Tkachuk, and coach D.J. Smith will not face any fines. Tkachuk received a two-minute instigator penalty, a 10-minute misconduct, and a fighting major.
The cloud of suspension has lifted, allowing Tkachuk to lead his team without interruption, but was it the right ruling?