That controversial confrontation on Friday between the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers resulted in some major consequences for Rangers forward Derek Stepan.
Derek Stepan out 4-6 weeks with broken ribs following controversial hit from Matt Beleskey
Beleskey faced no punishment for the play.
Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Stepan was injured after a late hit from Bruins forward Matt Beleskey sent him flying into the boards during the second period. He didn't return to the game, and the Rangers announced on Monday he would miss the next four to six weeks with broken ribs.
If Stepan is placed on long-term injured reserve, the Rangers would be able to make room for call-ups.
Beleskey hit on Stepan pic.twitter.com/bl6pHfvb4V
— Stephanie (@myregularface) November 27, 2015 Beleskey’s hit gained attention due to the lack of punishment it received. Beleskey was not penalized during the game, and the Department of Player Safety isn’t expected to hand down supplemental discipline after investigating the hit over the weekend.
In an interview with NESN, Beleskey argued some of the fault for the injury was on Stepan:
“I just think he didn’t think I was going to hit him,” he said. “He kind of didn’t brace himself. I didn’t take any extra strides or anything like that. Maybe, maybe, a little bit late. But he saw me coming, I came from the front. So, it’s unfortunate that ... I think I just saw he’s injured, so hopefully he’s all right.”
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