Yesterday, it was announced that Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly received a five-game suspension for his cross-check on Ridley Greig. The league shared the news on their official account.
«Morgan Rielly has been suspended five games by @NHLPlayerSafety for his cross-check on Ridly Greig.
The @NHLPA has 48 hours to appeal the decision on Rielly's behalf to NHL commissioner Gary Bettman ... and I'd expect them to appeal.»
While some may wonder why it's only five games instead of six, the Department of Player Safety's decision prevents Rielly from appealing to an independent arbitrator.
Criticism has been mounting against the DoPS, especially after reports surfaced that the punishment was leaked to the media before the Maple Leafs and Rielly were informed.
"Dreger just implied on the pre-game that the DOPS skipped protocol and leaked the ruling out before the Leafs and Rielly even knew.
That seems fantastic."
It's concerning that they couldn't follow proper protocol and notify the player or team first.
Overall, there's growing frustration with how the department is being run, and changes may be needed to restore trust in its decisions.
