Olli Jokinen could face possible suspension
Calgary Flames centre Olli Jokinen could be facing a suspension after cross-checking Phoenix Coyotes forward Wojtek Wolski in the face during a TV time-out.
After a stoppage in play in the Flames loss to the Coyotes on Tuesday 17 November, Jokinen skated over to the Phoenix bench and cross-checked winger Wolski in the face, sending the forward to the ice. The youngster eventually got to his feet and did not
suffer an injury on the play. Jokinen was assessed a five-minute penalty and was issued a game misconduct.
After reviewing the tape, National Hockey League disciplinarian Colin Campbell scheduled a meeting with Jokinen on Wednesday 18 November to determine whether or not the Finn would receive supplemental discipline for his actions.
The League has already set precedent for this type of infraction by handing Philadelphia Flyers forward Daniel Briere a three-game suspension after he cross-checked New York Islanders forward Frans Nielsen in the face, off a draw.
However, Jokinen’s case differs slightly from Briere’s, as Jokinen is a first-time offender and Briere’s suspension was the third of his career. Moreover, Briere’s infraction occurred during play and could be considered a hockey play, while Jokinen’s was
during a break and was deliberate, as the forward targeted Wolski, skating over to him before delivering the cross-check.
The Flames have been playing poorly over the past two weeks, with a record of 3-7-0 in their last 10 games, and currently sit in second last in the Western Conference. Much like the team, Jokinen has not been able to find his game this season and seemed
to be taking his frustration out on Wolski, in what was the club’s third straight loss.
So far this season Jokinen has managed two goals and six assists in 17 games.
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