Breaking: Mantha gets suspended by IIHF

Team Canada will be without its best player…

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Published 4 years ago
Breaking: Mantha gets suspended by IIHF
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The International Ice Hockey Federation has made its decision and Team Canada will be without its best player Anthony Mantha for the quarter-final game against Switzerland. 

Mantha has been suspended one game for his hit on Colin White during Tuesday's game between Canada and the United States at the world hockey championship. 



Mantha committed the hit in the second period and was given a two-minute penalty for an illegal check to the head and a 10-minute misconduct. The IIHF made this explanation in regards to the Detroit Red Wings player’s hit

During the play, the puck goes deep into Canada’s defensive zone and is played into the right corner by the Canadian goaltender. Mantha and USA forward Colin White then raced towards the puck. Upon reaching the puck, White reaches out with his stick in an attempt to play the puck, at the exact same moment that Mantha prepares to make the check. White’s action of reaching for the puck results in him taking a low position. 
Mantha was not looking at the puck but was rather focused on checking White. When contact is made Mantha does not engage in an upward motion but directs his body into the head of White. Mantha’s size was a contributing factor to the check being directed to the head of White.
Based on all facts ascertained, the Disciplinary Panel determined that Mantha drove his body into the head area of White when delivering the check. The Panel also determined that Mantha, being aware of White’s vulnerable position, nevertheless made the decision to deliver a check which could have been avoided by playing the puck. 
The Panel finds that Mantha’s actions were dangerous, created a serious risk of injury to White, and violated IIHF Official Rule 124 (Checking to the Head and Neck). Mantha could have played the puck rather than making the check. 
Based on these facts, The Disciplinary Panel determined that because Mantha will be sanctioned with a one game suspension. He will be eligible to return for the semi-final round should Canada advance.

Mantha is tied for the tournament lead with seven goals through seven games in Slovakia. He also has five assists for an impressive total of 12 points. 

Canada shut out the United States 3-0 to finish first in Group A en route to the quarterfinals. 

Source: Twitter