NHL Player Safety fines Anaheim Ducks forward Ross Johnston after Seattle Kraken incident

On Wednesday, the NHL turned its attention to Anaheim after officials said they would punish Ducks forward Ross Johnston, as the decision came after a tense moment in Anaheim's game against the Seattle Kraken, when Johnston hit Seattle forward Tye Kartye hard, which got the attention of officials, teammates, and fans right away.Hockey is a physical sport, but the NHL still stresses accountability when players' safety is at risk. Johnston's fine shows that the league is serious about enforcing rules that keep players safe while keeping the sport's competitive edge.NHL Player Safety issued a fine to Anaheim Ducks forward Ross Johnston for roughing Seattle Kraken forward Tye Kartye. The fine, $2,864.58, is the maximum allowed under the Collective Bargaining Agreement for this type of infraction, reflecting the league’s strict stance on dangerous plays.The incident occurred when Johnston approached Kartye from behind and delivered a sharp, forceful hit, causing an immediate stoppage. While penalties were assessed during the game, the league later reviewed the play to determine supplemental discipline. NHL officials concluded that a fine was sufficient, and no games will be missed.Fans and analysts are arguing about the ruling. Some say a suspension would have been better, while others say the fine fits with how the NHL has been punishing players lately. Johnston's fine is a reminder to the Anaheim Ducks that they need to keep their aggressive play in check to avoid getting in trouble with the league.The Seattle Kraken, on the other hand, said that Tye Kartye was not hurt and stayed in the game. As the season goes on, NHL Player Safety decisions like this one remind us that the league is dedicated to keeping players safe while also keeping the competitive edge of hockey.Also Read: Net worth of Auston Matthews in 2025: Details on Toronto Maple Leafs captain's earnings, salary, and contracts