Linz defender Laurin Müller suspended two games

Laurin Müller (#54) of Steel Wings Linz, time approx. 15:20, made contact with an opponent deemed as an Illegal Check to the Head or Neck, IIHF Rule 48. Based on the video evidence, it is determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 2 – ‘Reckless’ – a deliberate and/or dangerous action with no concern for the result, with a conscious action to provoke, through intent and a willful purpose. Injury is not the determining factor but can be considered as influential means to the decision.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the AHL PSC, player Laurin Müller (#54) of Steel Wings Linz, will receive supplementary discipline under rule 48 – Checking to the head or neck area.

On Thursday night, October 14th, in Linz, an incident occurred, deemed as an illegal check to the head.

As the video shows, KAC D'man #45 Andrej Tavzelj received a pass from the KAC goalkeeper. Immediately, Tavzelj turned, with the puck, up ice, to make an outlet pass. With Tavzelj being a left hand shot and Linz forward, #54 Laurin Müller approaching from the right side of Tavzelj, the check is considered unsuspecting. It is considered probable and considering Müller cannot make a play on the puck, that a body check will occur. However, when making a body check, especially from an unsuspecting side, the responsibility is on Müller to make a legal check through the use of his shoulder to the body of Tavzelj. 

The reason for supplementary discipline, is the body check Müller delivered is considered a check to the head area of Tavzelj. With Müller preparing to make a check, at a far enough distance to minimize contact and avoid head contact, it is deemed Tavzelj had no way to protect himself. The body check did cause an apparent injury, in which Tavzelj was unable to return to play.

Effective immediately, Laurin Müller (#54) of Steel Wings Linz is suspended for 2 games.

Key references:

• Illegal check to the head or neck area
• Unsuspecting with head contact deemed avoidable
• Considered category 2 - Reckless
• Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the AHL Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 112 - Checking to the Head or Neck, Laurin Müller (#54) of Steel Wings Linz, is suspended for 2 game's, effective immediately.

Next game Laurin Müller (#54) of Steel Wings Linz is allowed to play:
23.10.2021 Steel Wings Linz vs. EC Bregenzerwald