Vancouver Canucks defenseman Alex Edler ran over Phoenix Coyotes goalie Mike Smith behind the Coyotes net during the second period of Thursday night's game at the Jobing.com Arena, igniting a brawl between the two teams.
Edler skated full speed behind the Coyotes net to chase the puck. When Smith got to it first, Edler made no attempt to slow down or get the puck and simply plowed over him.
Edler was assessed a five minute major penalty for charging on the play, and Coyotes center Martin Hanzal was assessed two minutes for roughing on the ensuing brawl. Smith finished out the period but sat out the third.
To add insult to injury, Edler recorded an assist on the game-winning goal in the third period against Coyotes backup goalie Jason LaBarbera to give the Canucks a 2-1 victory. We'll see if Edler escapes further punishment from the NHL when the play is reviewed by the league office.
Video via HockeyVideoHD. H/T Puck Daddy.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
