Two games suspensions of Maximilian Preiml

Maximilan Preiml (#64) of EC-KAC, time approximately 48:03 was involved in an incident deemed as Kneeing (IIHF Rule 50). The video evidence was sent to the win2day ICE Hockey League PSC, which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 1 - 'Careless'.

On Wednesday in Klagenfurt, EC-KAC defenseman #64 Maximilian Preiml was involved in an incident classified as kneeing against Budapest forward #92 Jussi Tammela. While Tammela appeared injured on the play, he was able to return to the game.

As the video shows, Tammela is skating along the boards in an effort to play the puck. As Preiml approaches in a defensive posture, Tammela attempts to chip the puck forward and is aware of Preiml’s presence. Tammela does adjust his body position, but this adjustment is made in an effort to minimize contact, not to initiate it.

Preiml initially prepares to play the puck and then immediately altered to deliver a check, but due to mistimed contact, he alters his body position. In doing so, Preiml slightly extends his leg and leads into the hit with his knee, resulting in direct leg-to-leg contact.

This play meets the standard for kneeing.

It is important to note that this is not a situation where a sudden or sharp movement by the puck carrier causes unavoidable leg-on-leg contact. Both players are moving in different directions, requiring Preiml to recognize that Tammela is skating through the play. Instead of disengaging, Preiml responds by slightly extending his knee forward in a last-second attempt to make contact. While this reaction is sometimes seen in defensive situations, on this play the only contact made is direct and forceful knee-to-knee contact.

The mitigating factor on this play is that Tammela’s leg was not weight-bearing at the time of contact, which likely reduced the severity of the injury.

After review, the ICE Hockey League Department of Player Safety has issued supplemental discipline. Maximilian Preiml (#64) of EC-KAC is suspended for two games and fined €400.This includes one game for the current incident and one additional game due to his status as a double repeat offender.

Previous suspensions:
01.10.2024 EC-KAC vs. spusu Vienna Capitals
2 games - IIHF 48 Check to the Head - https://cdn.jwplayer.com/previews/wHXOgG2e
14.11.2024 Olimpija Ljubljana vs. EC-KAC
2 games - IIHF 48 Check to the Head - https://cdn.jwplayer.com/previews/CiSl581d-jgaFqUWd

To summarize:
1) This is Kneeing
2) Knee on knee contact
3) Double repeat offender

Next game Maximilan Preiml (#64) of EC-KAC is allowed to play:
22.02.2026 Moser Medical Graz 99ers vs. EC-KAC

DOPS provided the following video: