Pens' Maata injured on Orpik's late hit to head

The wheel of discipline in the NHL’s department of player safety is going to get another underwhelming spin Sunday when they take a look at a hit delivered by Washington Capitals defenseman Brooks Orpik in the first period on Saturday night.

The hit ended up knocking Penguins defenseman Olli Maatta out of the game and earned Orpik a two-minute minor for interference.

It happened deep in the Washington zone after a shot on goal from Maatta. Well after Maatta shoots the puck, Orpik came in and went out of his way to hit the Penguins defenseman and drove his arm directly into Maatta’s head, leaving him clearly dazed on the ice.

Here is a look at the play.

[H/t @SonsofPenn on the GIF]

That could have easily been a major penalty and an ejection, and it probably should result in a suspension. It was way late, it was to the head, he clearly lifted his arm to go into Maatta. It was just a bad — and needless — hit in every possible way.

If it was the regular season, Orpik would likely be sitting for a couple of games. Even though the league is far more likely to suspend for a direct hit to the head, than, say, a knee-on-knee hit or a high-stick to the face, it has demonstrated time and again it will usually decide to not get involved in the playoffs and let more things slide.

If the league does do something in the playoffs, it is usually underwhelming.

Orpik was on the receiving end of a late, high hit in the first round from Philadelphia’s Ryan White that forced him out of the lineup. There was no discipline for that hit, either.

Brooks Orpik should be suspended for this hit. Will he be? (Twitter)

Let’s block ads! (Why?)