LATEST NEWS: Upon appeal, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman gives ‘shocking reason’ why ‘Ryan Hartman’s suspension was reduced to eight games

LATEST NEWS: Upon appeal, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman gives ‘shocking reason’ why ‘Ryan Hartman’s suspension was reduced to eight games

In a recent decision, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman reduced Minnesota Wild forward Ryan Hartman’s suspension from 10 games to eight, following an appeal. The suspension stemmed from a February 1, 2025, incident in which Hartman drove Ottawa Senators forward Tim Stützle’s head into the ice, resulting in a cut above Stützle’s eyebrow. Hartman was initially assessed a match penalty for intent to injure and subsequently handed a 10-game suspension. citeturn0news1

During the appeal, the NHL Players Association argued that the 10-game suspension was excessively severe, especially considering Hartman’s previous longest suspension was three games. Commissioner Bettman concurred that the escalation from a three-game to a 10-game suspension was disproportionate. In his decision, Bettman stated, “Although I conclude that an escalation from Mr. Hartman’s prior three (3) game suspension to ten (10) games is not proportional here, I find that an eight (8) game suspension is both appropriate … .” citeturn0news0

Bettman emphasized that the eight-game suspension should serve as a “wake-up call” for Hartman, urging him to reassess his on-ice conduct and make necessary adjustments to his playing style. This decision highlights the NHL’s commitment to maintaining player safety while ensuring that disciplinary actions are fair and proportionate to the infractions committed.

Hartman’s history of on-ice misconduct includes four prior suspensions and seven fines, but none exceeding three games. This pattern of behavior likely influenced the initial 10-game suspension, as the league aims to deter repeat offenses. However, the reduction to eight games reflects a balance between acknowledging Hartman’s past infractions and ensuring the punishment aligns with the severity of the incident.

The incident occurred during a faceoff in Minnesota’s 6-0 loss to Ottawa, where Hartman drove Stützle face-first into the ice, leading to a match penalty for intent to injure. The NHL’s Department of Player Safety determined that Hartman intentionally used his arm and body weight to drive his opponent’s head into the ice, deeming the action unacceptable and dangerous. citeturn0news1

With the suspension now set at eight games, Hartman will be eligible to return on March 4, 2025, for the Wild’s game against the Seattle Kraken. This period away from play serves not only as a penalty but also as an opportunity for Hartman to reflect on his conduct and make the necessary changes to avoid future disciplinary actions.

In his 11-season NHL career, Hartman has recorded 135 goals and 160 … over 628 games, playing for teams including the Chicago Blackhawks, Nashville … , and Minnesota Wild. This season, he has contributed seven goals and 10 assists in 48 games. As Hartman prepares to return to the ice, both fans and league officials will be watching closely to see how he adapts his gameplay in response to this suspension.