Overview
- Paul Cotter of the New Jersey Devils has been suspended for the final two regular-season games after delivering an illegal shoulder-to-head check on Adam Pelech of the New York Islanders.
- The NHL Department of Player Safety announced the decision following a video review and disciplinary hearing on Monday, April 14, 2025.
- Cotter, who has no prior disciplinary history, will forfeit $8,073 in salary as a result of the suspension but will be available for the first round of the playoffs.
- The incident occurred six minutes into the second period of Sunday’s game, leaving Pelech injured and unable to return, though no update on his condition has been provided.
- Islanders coach Patrick Roy criticized the hit, emphasizing its dangerous nature and the importance of player safety in the league.