While he said he was not dazed, Wideman certainly looked like he was at the very least pre-occupied with the pain from the hit. It really looks as though his state of mind resulted in an error of judgement which involved an intentional hitting motion (perhaps defensive in intention) which happened to be directed towards the linesman. A suspension is justified even though I don't believe it was at all premeditated.
It would actually be good for the NHL to at least comment on or possibly fine the Flames for not following concussion protocol with Wideman after that collision and his actions.
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"If stupidity got us into this mess, then why can't it get us out?"
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