Release from 01.04.2026

Two-game suspension for Ljubljana forward Alex Petan

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Alex Petan of Olimpija Ljubljana has been suspended for two games and fined €500 for a cross-checking incident (IIHF Rule 59). As a result, the forward will miss his team’s upcoming two semifinal games against HC Falkensteiner Pustertal.

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Alex Petan (#19) of Olimpija Ljubljana, time 54:12 was involved in an incident deemed as Cross-Checking (IIHF Rule 59). The video evidence was sent to the win2day ICE Hockey League PSC, which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 2 - 'reckless'.

On Tuesday, March 31, in Ljubljana, Alex Petan (#19) was initially assessed a 2 minute penalty for hooking against Pustertal forward Henry Bowlby (#28) causing Bowlby to fall to the ice. Following the stoppage in play, Petan circles back toward the fallen opponent and delivers a directedcross-check to the head area, in which he was assessed a 5 minute major + game misconduct. While no injury is apparent, this action constitutes cross-checking.

As the video shows, the opponent is in a vulnerable position on the ice and is unable to anticipate or defend against the contact. Although the force of the cross-check is not excessive, the combination of intent, targeting of the head area, and delivery on an unsuspecting player results in a reckless endangerment of the opponent.

In such cases, on-ice penalties may be significant. However, supplementary discipline is warranted due to the nature of the action, specifically the location of contact and the opponent’s inability to protect himself.

After review, the ICE Hockey League Department of Player Safety has issued the following decision: Alex Petan is suspended for two games and fined 500 euros.

To summarize:

  • This is cross-checking
  • Recklessly target an unsuspecting opponent
  • Not a repeat offender

Previous suspensions: none
Next game Alex Petan (#19) of Olimpija Ljubljana is allowed to play: TBA


Fine for Josh Currie
In addition, Graz player Josh Currie received an automatic fine of 200 euros following his first game misconduct penalty in the playoffs during the match against Hydro Fehérvár AV19.