Hockey news: OHL player suspended for entire season after violent cut to head
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The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has suspended a player for the remainder of the regular season and the playoffs after his violent headbutt last week left his opponent bloodied and unable to finish the game.
Brampton Steelheads player Luke Dragusica, 18, was suspended after the OHL’s department of player safety reviewed the Nov. 14 game against the Oshawa Generals, in which Dragusica punched defenseman Brady Blaseg in the face.
Tristan Delisle (40) of the Oshawa Generals battles Luke Dragusica (23) of the Mississauga Steelheads during the third period at the Tribute Communities Center in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, December 13, 2023. (Chris Tanouye/Getty Images)
The incident occurred with just over two minutes remaining in the game.
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Video of the incident shows Dragusica swinging his staff at Blaseg’s face, who immediately fell to the ground in apparent pain. While he was down, Dragusica performed a cross-check on Blaseg.
A fight between the two teams ensued, with the referees quickly intervening to separate the players.
Blaseg was treated by staff and video of the incident showed blood staining the ice where Blaseg was hit. He did not return to the game.
Dragusica will be required to complete a league-mandated education, counseling and community service program as part of his suspension. (iStock)
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“This decision follows a comprehensive review of the incident by the OHL Department of Player Safety which included videos, game reports, interviews and submissions from both clubs,” the OHL said in a statement released Friday.
“The deliberate use of a stick as a weapon on an opponent’s head, followed by additional contact on a defenseless player, is a dangerous and unacceptable act that has no place in the OHL.”
Dragusica will be required to complete a league-mandated education, counseling and community service program as part of his suspension. He will also have to appear before a reinstatement committee to determine his eligibility for the 2026-2027 season.
Tristan Delisle (40) of the Oshawa Generals battles Luke Dragusica (23) of the Mississauga Steelheads during the third period at the Tribute Communities Center in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, December 13, 2023. (Chris Tanouye/Getty Images)
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According to Athletics, Blaseg suffered a cut mouth and bruises to his face, but returned to play in the team’s next game two days later.
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