Tom Wilson will not receive any supplemental discipline after his big hit on Logan Stankoven during the Caps’ 4-3 overtime win against the Carolina Hurricanes.
With 6:57 remaining in regulation, Wilson leveled Stankoven behind the net, catching the Hurricanes forward with his head down and looking at the puck. Wilson appeared to initially strike Stankoven in the chest with his hit before also catching him in the head. Stankoven was bloodied on the play, leaking from a cut above the left eye.
According to ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski, Wilson will not receive a suspension on the hit that was ruled legal during the game.
“No NHL Player Safety hearing for @Capitals Tom Wilson after massive hit on @Canes Logan Stankoven last night,” Wyshynski wrote. “How I saw it: Wilson takes an angle to hit thru body legally. Doesn’t pick the head — unavoidable head contact was caused by height difference and body positioning.”
Capitals defenseman Jakob Chychrun scored seconds after Wilson’s hit, tying the game 3-3. Justin Sourdif would then go on to win the game in overtime for the Capitals.
Wilson has been suspended six different times in his career, with his most recent ban coming on March 20, 2024, after high-sticking the Leafs’ Noah Gregor. Wilson was suspended six games.
Wilson’s last hit-related suspension came on March 6, 2021, when he boarded Bruins defenseman Brandon Carlo. He was suspended seven games.
Wilson has adjusted his game since and even gives a verbal heads-up at times before delivering big body checks so players can prepare for impact.
