### Nicolas Roy's Cross-Check Incident: A Controversial Play in the NHL Playoffs In a recent playoff game, Vegas Golden Knights forward Nicolas Roy faced scrutiny for a reckless cross-check against Edmonton Oilers player Trent Frederic. The incident occurred during overtime of Game 2 in their second-round playoff series, leading to a hearing with the NHL's Department of Player Safety. Ultimately, Roy was fined $7,812.50 but avoided a suspension, a decision that has sparked discussions about player safety and disciplinary measures in the league [https://www.si.com/onsi/breakaway/news-feed-page/vegas-golden-knights-nicolas-roy-fined-edmonton-oilers-incident][https://www.nhl.com/news/vegas-golden-knights-nicolas-roy-fine-for-cross-checking]. ### Breakdown of the Incident and Consequences 1. **Incident Overview**: - Roy delivered a cross-check to Frederic's face while battling for the puck, resulting in a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_roy_to_have_hearing_for_game_2_cross_check_on_oilers_frederic/s1_16958_42172493]. - Frederic was visibly shaken and required medical attention but returned to the game shortly after [https://www.ctvnews.ca/edmonton/article/golden-knights-roy-fined-but-not-suspended-for-cross-checking-oilers-frederic]. 2. **NHL's Decision**: - Following a hearing, the NHL fined Roy but opted not to suspend him, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike [https://www.espn.co.uk/nhl/story/_/id/45074080/nhl-fines-vegas-nicolas-roy-trent-frederic-cross-check]. - The fine amount of $7,812.50 is the maximum allowable for such infractions [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nhl/news/nicolas-roy-fined-7812-50-for-overtime-cross-check-on-trent-frederic-in-nhl-playoff-clash/articleshow/121058534.cms]. 3. **Impact on the Series**: - The Golden Knights are currently trailing the Oilers 2-0 in the best-of-seven series, and Roy's absence could have been a significant blow to the team's depth [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_forward_facing_suspension_ahead_of_game_3/s1_14825_42172354]. - Despite the incident, the Golden Knights managed to kill off the penalty before conceding the game-winning goal [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_nicolas_roy_to_have_hearing_with_nhl/s1_17050_42172401]. ### Supporting Evidence and Reactions - **Player Safety Concerns**: The incident has reignited discussions about player safety in the NHL, particularly regarding the severity of penalties for dangerous plays [https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/article/vegas-nicolas-roy-fined-but-not-suspended-for-20320141.php]. - **Public and Media Reaction**: Many commentators have expressed surprise at the NHL's decision not to suspend Roy, suggesting that it may set a concerning precedent for future disciplinary actions [https://clutchpoints.com/nhl/vegas-golden-knights/golden-knights-news-nicolas-roy-dodges-suspension-fine-egregious-ot-cross-check]. ### Conclusion: A Controversial Decision in the NHL Playoffs In summary, **Nicolas Roy's cross-check on Trent Frederic has raised significant concerns regarding player safety and the NHL's disciplinary measures**. The decision to impose a fine without a suspension has been met with mixed reactions, highlighting the ongoing debate about how the league handles dangerous plays. 1. **Incident Details**: Roy's cross-check led to a major penalty and a fine, but no suspension was issued. 2. **NHL's Rationale**: The league's decision has sparked discussions about the adequacy of penalties for dangerous plays. 3. **Series Implications**: The Golden Knights are currently down 2-0 in the series, and Roy's presence could have been crucial. The outcome of this incident may influence future disciplinary actions and the overall approach to player safety in the NHL [https://www.essentiallysports.com/us-sports-nhl-will-nicolas-roy-be-suspended-for-trent-frederic-cross-check-las-vegas-star-receives-four-figure-nhl-punishment-post-dangerous-play].