Why Tom Wilson Received Six Games For High-Sticking; NHL Department Of Player Safety Explains Suspension: 'Extremely Reckless'

WASHINGTON — Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson received a six-game suspension for high-sticking Noah Gregor in Wednesday's loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the NHL Department of Player Safety explained why he'll have to sit out for an extended period of time.

In a video explaining the decision, the DoPS cites that Wilson's play was "extremely reckless" and claimed that the 29-year-old was in full control of his actions.

"As Wilson and Gregor separate after the hit, Wilson draws his stick back, then swings it forward in an extremely reckless fashion, making direct and forceful contact with Gregor's face. This is high sticking," the video explained. "It is important to note that Wilson is solely in control of his actions throughout this play. While he acknowledged Wilson's assertion that he did not mean to strike Gregor in the face, the fact remains that Wilson's stick is drawn back behind him, then swung forcefully and recklessly into his opponent."

The video also notes Wilson's "substantial track record of supplemental discipline," which includes five suspensions and three fines over his 746-game NHL career, and adds that while the high stick was not intentional, Wilson could have acted differently.

"This is not a case in which two players are fully engaged in influencing each others' actions, nor is it a case in which a player is off balance and his stick swings during an attempt to regain his footing," the video added. "Wilson's actions on this play are fully under his own control, irresponsible and not related to any sort of legitimate hockey action. He is accountable for the dangerous result of the play, which is a direct and forceful blow to an opponent's head by a player with a substantial track record of supplemental discipline."

Wilson's suspension will be up on April 4, when the Capitals host the Pittsburgh Penguins. Until then, he will have to sit out and will forfeit $161,458.32 of his salary, whcih goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.