According to Minnesota Star Tribune beat writer Michael Russo, the NHL’s department of player safety has determined there was no targeting of the head by Minnesota forward Charlie Coyle.
I’d be willing to accept that it’s considered not to be “intentional” contact with the head, but the current response leaves a lot to be desired for most Columbus fans – particularly those who still remember the way Brendan Shanahan and the NHL have handled previous incidents involving the Jackets.
As for Anisimov, head coach Todd Richards told the media last night that Artem Anisimov will be out indefinitely, all but certainly confirming that he suffered a concussion on the play. Even though it’s still referred to as an “upper body injury”, it’s likely the injury will keep a vital piece of the team’s offense out for the rest of the regular season, and even if the club can continue their hot streak and make the postseason, it’s hard to say if he’ll be able to return in time.
All things considered, they’ll want to use caution – Anisimov is one of the players who John Davidson and Jarmo Kekalainen clearly see as a core piece of the club’s future. Even though I’d love to see him back for the final game or two, his long term health is a far greater concern.