[foshizzle11]

This is getting a lot of attention but seriously, Tkachuk definitely targeted Kassian because he knew he would get him riled up and likely take a bad penalty. Guys come out today saying that Kassian was in a vulnerable position near the net with the puck at his feet and Tkachuk should show these players a little respect and not hit them. So just let the guy have the puck and take it to the front of the net? Give me a break, you better expect to be hit in that position.

Tkachuk is right, in the fact that Kassian didn't learn from the first hit and he really should have, he shouldn't put himself in a vulnerable position. Tkachuk didn't target his head either, on either play.

The NHL said the hits were clean, the first was borderline in my opinion, could have gone either way. But if the NHL says the hits were dirty/should have been a penalty now, then they have to admit that their refs got two plays wrong in a single game, the NHL doesn't do that.

Then we have the former players who are coming out and saying he was predatory in the nature of his hits. Ya, predatory in an intent to rile up Kassian, not hurt him. If he was trying to hurt him he would have elbowed him in the face or head, he didn't do that.

Kassian didn't think the hits were clean, was probably pissed the refs weren't call him so he felt it necessary to fight Tkachuk. But why wouldn't he do it face to face instead of grabbing him like he did and just start throwing punches? Maybe it less likely that Tkachuk turtles if he comes at him face to face, I don't know. Matthew did say today in the media that he would do it again, ie turtle because Kassian is above his weight class and his teammates would rather have him on the ice than in the box. I agree 100%.

I hope Kassian gets suspended for this, even if it is for 1 game and then I hope he tries to take runs at us and Lucic knocks what ever teeth are still remaining in that smug smile of his. If they try to run our stars, let them, let them take stupid penalties, let them play themselves out of games. 8 points out of a playoff spot because they lost all 4 games to the flames this season. Would be a nice story line.