Tensions flared in Monday`s game between the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings, just days before their playoff series.
Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse received a five-minute major penalty and was ejected from the game for cross-checking Kings forward Quinton Byfield. The incident occurred in the second period when Nurse hit Byfield in the head area.
During a scramble in front of the Oilers` net while shorthanded, Nurse pushed Byfield to the ice and then cross-checked him near the back of the head.
Byfield remained on the ice briefly before getting up and leaving the ice. He was evaluated for a concussion during the second intermission.
The referees penalized Nurse with a major penalty and game misconduct after reviewing the play.
Kings forward Phillip Danault commented on the Oilers` physical play during an intermission interview, suggesting the Oilers were trying to injure Kings players before the playoffs.
“I think they just have their `B squad` in trying to hurt us,” Danault stated.
Tristan Blackwood