Two games suspensions of Nikolaus Kraus

Nikolaus Kraus (#80) of EC Red Bull Salzburg, time 57:24 was involved in an incident deemed as Boarding (IIHF Rule 41). 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 Salzburg, EC Red Bull Salzburg forward #80 Nikolaus Kraus was involved in an incident classified as boarding against Hydro Fehérvár AV19 defenseman #59 Joel Messner. A major penalty and game misconduct were assessed by the on-ice officials.

Video review shows that following a stretch pass, the puck becomes loose in the corner, forcing Messner to turn and skate directly toward the boards in an attempt to retrieve and play the puck. Kraus pursues the play from behind with a clear sight line of Messner’s back and jersey number throughout the approach.

At approximately the goal line, Kraus makes a decision to load up and deliver a forceful hit from behind. At the moment of contact, Messner is facing the boards and in a vulnerable position, with no reasonable opportunity to protect himself. The hit results in a reported injury.This play meets the standard for boarding.

While the Player Safety Committee acknowledges that Messner makes a minor body adjustment consistent with skating along the boards, the primary point of contact remains directly to the back. Kraus does not attempt to minimize or avoid contact. Instead, he increases force prior to impact, creating unnecessary and excessive force in a situation where the hit could have been reduced or avoided altogether.

Following review, the ICE Hockey League Department of Player Safety has determined that supplementary discipline is warranted.
Nikolaus Kraus (#80) of EC Red Bull Salzburg has been suspended for two (2) game's and fined 400 euros.

To summarize:
1) This is Boarding
2) Contact from behind
3) Not a repeat offender

Previous suspension:
none

Next game Nikolaus Kraus (#80) of EC Red Bull Salzburg is allowed to play:
22.02.2026 EC Red Bull Salzburg vs. HC Falkensteiner Pustertal