An ex-NHLer has found himself in some hot water in the Swedish Hockey League after intentionally drilling an opponent in the head with a very dirty hit. Anton Lindholm, who had previously played 66 NHL games with the Colorado Avalanche, was immediately assessed a match penalty for the hit and was subsequently suspended for 5 games, forfeiting more than $7,000 USD as a result of the play.
Lindholm, who has been playing for Leksand of the SHL for the past three seasons, hit Henrik Bjorklund of Färjestad out of frustration with his team down 3-0.
These types of hits have no place in the game. With all we know about head trauma and concussions now, it's good to know that the SHL is taking the situation seriously and holding Lindholm accountable for his actions.
