Connor McDavid addressed his three-game suspension for cross-checking Conor Garland during Saturday’s game against the Vancouver Canucks.
“I don’t necessarily agree with it,” McDavid told Sportsnet. “I’m not saying there shouldn’t have been any penalty or any suspension, or anything like that. Might be a little bit harsh, but I understand their decision and we move on.”
The Edmonton Oilers captain said he didn’t see if officials made any call on Garland for pinning him down during the incident.
“I did not, I had my head between my legs, so I didn’t see what the refs’ reaction was,” McDavid said.
“I understand that the refs have a hard job but, that being said, my job’s hard too,” he added. “Everyone’s got a hard job. That’s why we’re in this business.”
The three-time NHL MVP plans to stay with the team during his suspension.
“I love to play. What am going to do? I’d rather be on the ice than sitting at home,” McDavid said. “It’s not like I can get a week away in Cabo. I’m here, I want to support the team … I want to be here to get myself ready to roll when it is time (to return).”
“We’ll have six games before the break, and we want to go into the break on a high note,” he continued. “I always feel that’s important … That’s my main focus here.”
Leon Draisaitl defended his teammate on Tuesday, saying the suspension was “a little too much” and suggesting the league should prioritize keeping its best players on the ice.
Even Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet called the suspension “unfortunate,” noting he prefers facing teams at full strength.
Vancouver defenseman Tyler Myers also received a three-game suspension for cross-checking Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard in the final seconds of the Canucks’ 3-2 win.
