Tyler Myers Suspended for Three Games After Cross-Check on Evan Bouchard

The NHL Department of Player Safety has issued a three-game suspension to Vancouver Canucks defenseman Tyler Myers following a controversial cross-check to the face of Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard. The incident occurred during the Canucks’ intense 3-2 victory over the Oilers at Rogers Arena on Saturday night, where tempers flared between the two rival teams.

Myers Responds to Suspension

Following the game, Tyler Myers addressed the media, offering his perspective on the play and insisting that the incident was unintentional.

“Things were getting heated there at the end,” Myers said. “I’m not ignorant to the fact of how it looks in real-time. But if you slow it down, I did start lower, and as [Bouchard] started to bring his hands up, it redirected my stick a little bit higher.”

Myers maintained that he had no intent to injure Bouchard, stating:

“I’ve never cross-checked anyone in the face in my whole career. I was talking to [Bouchard] at the red line afterward, and he seemed to be okay. I’m glad he’s okay.”

Impact on the Canucks’ Schedule

As a result of the suspension, Myers will miss three key matchups, including games against the:

• Buffalo Sabres

• Washington Capitals

• Edmonton Oilers (rematch)

The veteran defenseman is eligible to return to the Canucks’ lineup on Monday, January 27, when Vancouver faces off against the St. Louis Blues.

Additional Suspensions: Connor McDavid Also Penalized

The Canucks vs. Oilers rivalry has led to disciplinary action for more than just Myers. Earlier on Monday, it was announced that Connor McDavid would also be serving a three-game suspension for delivering a cross-check to Canucks forward Connor Garland late in regulation. This marks a significant blow for the Oilers as they navigate the upcoming schedule without their captain and offensive powerhouse.

What This Means for the Canucks

With Myers sidelined, the Canucks will have to make adjustments to their defensive lineup. Key players such as Quinn Hughes and Filip Hronek will need to step up to fill the void left by the veteran defenseman. Myers has been a crucial part of the Canucks’ defensive core, contributing both physically and strategically on the ice.

NHL’s Commitment to Player Safety

The suspension of Myers highlights the NHL’s ongoing efforts to maintain player safety and enforce strict discipline for dangerous plays. The league has been increasingly vigilant about penalizing high hits and dangerous stick infractions to protect its players and uphold the integrity of the game.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Fans from both sides have taken to social media to express their opinions on the suspension. While some Canucks supporters believe the punishment was too severe, Oilers fans argue that the NHL made the right call to deter similar incidents in the future. The debate continues as both teams look to move forward.

Looking Ahead

The Canucks will need to regroup and focus on their upcoming games without Myers. The coaching staff will likely emphasize discipline and defensive adjustments to compensate for his absence. Meanwhile, the Oilers will also be without their star player McDavid, adding an intriguing element to their rematch.

The NHL’s decision to suspend Myers underscores the importance of playing within the rules and avoiding dangerous plays. While Myers maintains his innocence, the league’s ruling serves as a reminder that safety remains a top priority in professional hockey.