When Matthew Tkachuk crunched Jake Guentzel into the boards in Game 3, the Florida Panthers’ star didn’t just spark a penalty—he ignited a firestorm of debate that’s tearing through NHL fandom. The Battle of Florida is serving up more than just goals; it’s dishing out drama, hard hits, and a side of controversy. The NHL’s Department of Player Safety ruled that Tkachuk won’t face a hearing or further discipline for the hit, and the decision’s got fans picking sides faster than a puck drop.
Social media lit up, too. A tweet from Spittin’ Chiclets read, “No hearing for Tkachuk. Thoughts?” One fan shrugged it off, saying, “lol, why would there be a hearing, no injury or injury potential.” Others, though, saw inconsistency, pointing to Hagel’s suspension as a measuring stick. Barkov missed the end of Game 2’s third period but was back for Game 3, while Guentzel kept skating.
Tkachuk’s hit in the third period of Florida’s 5-1 loss on Saturday earned him a five-minute major for interference. According to ESPN sources, the league deemed that penalty sufficient, noting Guentzel had recently touched the puck and Tkachuk avoided contact with his head. Contrast that with Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel’s hit on Florida captain Aleksander Barkov in Game 2, which landed Hagel a one-game suspension. Hagel also got a five-minute major, but the puck was long gone when he connected with Barkov, and the NHL saw more force in that play.
No hearing for Tkachuk. Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/jzwcprQUpI
— Spittin’ Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) April 27, 2025
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