Suspension coming before first game of the postseason?!

The Vegas Golden Knights might have won last night’s exhibition 4-1 over the Arizona Coyotes, the internet is wondering if they will lose gritty forward Ryan Reaves for the start of the postseason… 

During the second period of Vegas’s exhibition game, Reaves checked Nick Schmaltz directly in the head while trying to force a turnover in the corner.

As you will see if the videos below, Reaves drills a leaning over Schmaltz under the helmet with his right arm and elbow, which unfortunately caused the Yotes forward’s head to whiplash backward. 

Schmaltz was clearly shaken up by the head and tried to stay in the game, but would eventually retreat to the dressing room. He did not return to the game.

There was no penalty called on the play.

However, reporter John Shannon mentioned this morning that the National Hockey League has taken a look at the hit. 

It’s unclear if Reaves will receive any supplemental discipline, but it is clearly something we will need to keep an eye on before the actual 24-team playoff tournament kicks off on Saturday. 

The Golden Knights are in action on Monday, against the Dallas Stars, and could have to do without Reaves…