Dirtiest Hockey Hits Of All Time
Hockey is a game of physicality, speed, and skill. Sometimes, physicality can lead to aggression and result in violent acts on the ice. Fans love the physicality of the game, but it is the dirty hits that leave a lasting impression on everyone. Here are some of the dirtiest hockey hits of all time.
1. Marty McSorley's Slash
Marty McSorley was a notorious enforcer in hockey for his dirty tactics. In 2000, McSorley hit Vancouver Canuck's Donald Brashear in the head with his stick, causing a serious injury. McSorley was charged with assault and banned from the NHL for a year.
2. Todd Bertuzzi's Sucker Punch
In 2004, Todd Bertuzzi sucker-punched Steve Moore, breaking his neck and ending his career. Bertuzzi was suspended indefinitely and charged with assault. The incident remains one of the most controversial in NHL history.
3. Dale Hunter's Late Hit
In the 1993 playoffs, Dale Hunter hit Pierre Turgeon after he scored a goal, causing him to injure his shoulder. Hunter was suspended for the remainder of the playoffs and fined $150,000, the largest fine in NHL history at the time.
4. Chris Simon's Stomp
In 2007, Chris Simon stomped on Jarkko Ruutu's leg with his skate. Simon was suspended for 30 games, the longest suspension in NHL history at the time.
5. Marty McSorley's Crosscheck
In the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals, McSorley hit Donald Brashear with a crosscheck to the head. McSorley was suspended for the remainder of the playoffs and charged with assault.
6. Ken Linseman's Hit From Behind
In 1982, Ken Linseman hit Islander defenseman Stefan Persson from behind, causing him to miss a significant portion of the playoffs. Linseman was suspended for three games.
7. Ulf Samuelsson's Knee
In the 1991 playoffs, Ulf Samuelsson hit Cam Neely with his knee, causing a serious injury. Neely missed the remainder of the playoffs and struggled with the injury for the rest of his career.
8. Scott Stevens' Hit on Eric Lindros
In the 2000 playoffs, Scott Stevens hit Eric Lindros, causing him to suffer a concussion. The hit was one of the most devastating in NHL history and ended Lindros's career with the Flyers.
9. Marty McSorley's Elbow
McSorley makes the list again for his elbow on Donald Brashear in 2000. McSorley was suspended for the remainder of the season and charged with assault.
10. Zdeno Chara's Hit on Max Pacioretty
In 2011, Zdeno Chara hit Max Pacioretty, causing him to suffer a severe concussion and neck injury. Chara was not suspended for the hit, but it sparked a debate about player safety in the NHL.
In conclusion, hockey is a physical game, and sometimes, that physicality can lead to dirty hits. These are just some of the most infamous and controversial moments in NHL history. The league continues to take strides to protect its players and reduce the number of dangerous hits on the ice.