Red Wings David Perron not taking suspension without a fight
David Perron of the Detroit Red Wings is not taking his recent six-game suspension lightly. Following the NHL’s decision to suspend him for a hit on Ottawa Senators’ defenseman Artem Zub, reports have emerged that the NHLPA is stepping in to appeal the suspension. This action comes in the wake of an incident during Ottawa’s 5-1 victory over the Red Wings, where Perron was penalized for a crosscheck in retaliation to a hit on Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin by Mathieu Joseph and Parker Kelly. Perron’s suspension, which is without pay, will cost him a significant sum calculated based on his average annual salary.

The Big Picture: Upholding Player Safety and League Integrity
The NHL’s decision to impose a six-game suspension on Perron highlights its commitment to player safety and enforcing the rules against dangerous play. This incident has significant implications for the Red Wings’ lineup and serves as a stern warning to players across the league about the repercussions of unsafe actions. The appeal by the NHLPA introduces another layer to this situation, suggesting that there may be more nuances to consider in the enforcement of player safety regulations.
TL;DR (too long didn’t read)
- David Perron faces a six-game suspension for crosschecking Senators’ Artem Zub.
- The NHLPA is appealing Perron’s suspension.
- The suspension results in a financial penalty of $148,437.48 for Perron.

The Bottom Line – Balancing Physicality and Safety
While the NHL’s decision reflects its efforts to maintain a balance between the physical nature of hockey and the need to protect players, the appeal by the NHLPA indicates that the conversation around player safety is far from straightforward. The outcome of this appeal could have lasting implications on how the league handles similar incidents in the future, potentially setting a precedent for player rights and the interpretation of safety rules. As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the league navigates these complex issues, keeping in mind both the integrity of the sport and the well-being of its players.