The NHL Player Safety department has fined Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Matt Grzelcyk $2,604.17 for cross-checking Ottawa Senators forward Tim Stutzle, which is the highest fine permitted for this offense under the current collective bargaining agreement. The incident happened during the Blackhawks’ latest game against the Senators on December 20, when Grzelcyk delivered a cross-check to Stutzle’s face during a post-whistle scrum in the first period, leading to a double minor penalty for high sticking.
Although receiving a fine is not ideal, the Blackhawks are relieved that Grzelcyk avoided a suspension, as he plays a key role on their defensive lineup. Grzelcyk secured a one-year, $1 million contract with Chicago at the start of the 2025-26 season after impressing the team during training camp on a professional tryout offer. This season, he has appeared in 35 games for the Blackhawks, contributing zero goals, six assists, 30 blocks, and maintaining a plus-3 rating. Previously, Grzelcyk set career highs with one goal, 39 assists, and 40 points over 82 games with the Pittsburgh Penguins last season.
Fan Take: This fine highlights the ongoing battle between physicality and discipline in the NHL, which is crucial for maintaining player safety without compromising the intensity of the game. For fans, it’s a reminder that even established players must keep their aggression in check to stay on the ice and help their teams succeed.
