Two games suspension for Krisztian Szabo

Krisztian Szabo (#11) of Hydro Fehervar AV 19, time 15:41 was involved in an incident deemed as High-Sticking (IIHF Rule 143). The video evidence was sent to the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga Committee (PSC), which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 2- 'Reckless'. According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga PSC, Krisztian Szabo (#11) of Hydro Fehervar AV 19, will receive supplementary discipline under rule 143 – High-Sticking.

On October 20th in Fehervar, an incident occurred involving (#11) Krisztian Szabo, deemed as High-Sticking. The incident was sent to the PSC and determined supplementary discipline is required. As the video shows, Krisztian Szabo gained possession of the puck in the corner and made a pass out of his defensive zone with his chest facing up ice. Immediately before a body check, Krisztian Szabo turned 180° to prepare for a check, which means the body check was suspecting. The opposing player making the body check, (#40) Mike Zalewski, made a routine body check, deemed legal.
The reason for supplementary discipline and for no apparent reason, Krisztian Szabo, used his stick in a slashing motion to create a high stick directly to the back of the head of Mike Zalewski. It was considered that Krisztian Szabo, when turning to prepare for a check put his stick, on his own accord, to a height just above the boards. The check by Mike Zalewski was not a reason for Krisztian Szabo stick to naturally propel in the direction, height and contact point it traveled. Instead, Krisztian Szabo made a conscious choice to use his stick in a recklessly endangering manner, deemed dangerous, to make contact to the head area of the opposing player.

Effective immediately, Krisztian Szabo (#11) of Hydro Fehervar AV 19 is suspended for 2 games and fined 300.00 Euros.

Key references:

• This is High-Sticking
• Unsuspecting contact to opposing players head
• Category 2 - Reckless
• Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 119- High-Sticking, Krisztian Szabo (#11) of Hydro Fehervar AV 19 is suspended for 2 games and fined 300.00Euros, effective immediately.

Next game Krisztian Szabo (#11) of Hydro Fehervar AV 19 is allowed to play:
03.11.2019 HC TWK Innsbruck 'Die Haie' vs. Hydro Fehervar AV 19