Blindside hit to Ryan Smyth results in 16-game suspension from men's league
A dangerous blindside headshot that resulted in former NHLer Ryan Smyth being taken to hospital has resulted in a lengthy suspension.
Kyle Sheen has been banned for 16 games by Hockey Alberta for his actions during a senior men's league playoff game, per Andrea Ross of CBC News.
The hit can be seen here:
"It's the first time I've seen a suspension this big since I've been involved in hockey," said Mike Tavaroli, head coach of Smyth's Stony Plain Eagles. "We feel the league and Hockey Alberta did their due diligence and came up with a suspension that was fair."
Smyth was hit by Sheen after releasing a shot that found its way into the back of the net, and underwent tests to make sure he hadn't suffered a skull fracture.
"Ryan is progressing and hopefully we'll know more this week. I believe he tried skating today, but I haven't heard how that went," Tavaroli said.
"We're hopeful that we can get Ryan back in the lineup before (the season) is over."