NHL Player Safety rules on Bowman's dirty hit on Poitras

Braeden Bowman Avoids Suspension After Ugly Elbow to Matthew Poitras

Vegas Golden Knights forward Braeden Bowman won't be facing any additional consequences for his controversial hit on Boston Bruins forward Matthew Poitras.

Despite being ejected from Monday night's matchup between the Golden Knights and Bruins after catching Poitras with a high elbow, Bowman has reportedly avoided supplemental discipline from the NHL Department of Player Safety.

According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, who shared the update on social media Tuesday, Bowman will not be suspended for the incident.

It's a decision that could generate plenty of debate among hockey fans, particularly given the severity of the collision and the immediate aftermath.

The incident occurred early in the second period at TD Garden when Bowman made contact with Poitras, appearing to catch the young Bruins forward in the head with his elbow. Poitras immediately went down to the ice, and there was visible blood following the collision.

Officials ultimately assessed Bowman a five-minute major for elbowing and a game misconduct, bringing his evening to an abrupt end. Poitras eventually returned to the Bruins bench wearing a full face shield, although he did not return to the ice for another shift.

Considering the nature of the contact, many probably expected Player Safety to take a closer look at the play and potentially hand Bowman a suspension.

That won't be happening, however.

The decision means Bowman will be available to return to the Golden Knights' lineup without missing any additional games beyond the ejection he received against Boston.

There is certainly room for debate surrounding the NHL's decision, especially when considering how much attention the league has placed on eliminating dangerous head contact in recent years.

Ultimately, Bowman received a significant in-game punishment, but Player Safety apparently determined that the incident did not warrant further disciplinary action.

For Vegas, that's undoubtedly welcome news as the Golden Knights look to get back on track. For Boston, the bigger concern will be the health of Poitras and whether the young forward will be available for the Bruins' upcoming games.