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Another game, another bit of controversy surrounding Brad Marchand.
Controversy is in quotes in the headline because depending on where you sit, this is either another dirty play from Marchand or is an example of the rest of the NHL seizing on any opportunity to rip on Marchand.
The play, from Chris/@CrzyCanucklehed:
First, here’s to hoping that Anthony Duclair’s injury isn’t severe. It looks like his knee got caught under his body; hopefully it’s a sprain and not something more severe.
Next, the play itself. At full speed, it looks like Marchand is turning back up ice, sees Duclair at the last second, and tries to avoid contact. In doing so, his arm catches Duclair across the head/neck and hauls him down.
In slow motion, it looks like a clothesline; however, the game isn’t played in slow motion.
If this was any other player, it’d be termed an accident and nothing more. But because it’s Brad Marchand, it’s an affront to hockey.
Brad Marchand (around a puck): Oh man, how does he have that kind of awareness and those reflexes?
— Winging It In Motown (@wingingitmotown) March 10, 2018
Brad Marchand (jumping at a guy): No way he could have avoided that.
Anthony Duclair injured after high hit from Brad Marchand (video) https://t.co/LGm2vjWUoP
— NHL on NBC (@NHLonNBCSports) March 10, 2018
Brad Marchand should be getting a phone call from Player Safety in the very near future. They probably have him on speed-dial, anyway. https://t.co/J8GsDETTVJ
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) March 10, 2018
What do you think? Unfortunate collision, or another mark on Marchand’s record?