Overview
- Early in the first period on Saturday, Nov. 7, Capitals forward Tom Wilson hit Florida rookie Sandis Vilmanis from behind and was assessed a five-minute major for boarding and a game misconduct.
- Vilmanis received on-ice medical attention, was helped to the dressing room and the Panthers announced he would not return while further imaging and evaluation are pending.
- On-ice officials reviewed replay on an iPad before confirming the major and ejecting Wilson from the game.
- The NHL’s Department of Player Safety opened an automatic review and will weigh Vilmanis’s injury and Wilson’s extensive prior disciplinary record when deciding whether to impose supplemental punishment.
- Coaches offered differing views after the game with Florida’s Paul Maurice deferring to the league and Washington’s Spencer Carbery saying a late turn by Vilmanis contributed, and any suspension could force a Capitals lineup reshuffle.