The 3 rules Kerry Fraser at TSN referenced for this, none specifically address this scenario. The issue I have with the contact is that Wideman pushed off once contact was made. He brought his hands & stick up which is a natural reaction but then he pushed hard essentially cross checking the linesman. I accept he may have been disoriented but why didn't he just grab the linesman when he realized contact was going to happen. Disorientation isn't a good defense. All players are responsible for their actions on the ice at all times.
I think it will be covered under 1 of these 3 rules Fraser referenced. Either 3 games or 10 games depending upon how the NHL decides to clasify it. Although it's an odd circumstance & Wideman's mental acuity may save him from getting 10 games.
On a side note. Interestingly enough here is 1 of the problems with NHL stats & it happens all the time on numerous categories not the least of which is shots on net scoring chances, give aways etc. In that game Salomaki caught Wideman with a decent shoulder check yet he wasn't even credited with a hit in that game!
- striker777
Because he thought it was a Predator player stopping him from going to the bench.
