Los Angeles Kings' Jake Muzzin Accidentally Blindsided Ref with Huge Hit
By Kyle Koster
NHL referees have difficult jobs. In addition to officiating fast-paced action, they must avoid interfering in play. Their ability to do so 99.9 percent of the time is impressive. The rare occasions when they physically become involved, however, can be costly.
Kelly Sutherland found this out the hard way last night when he was accidentally blindsided by Jake Muzzin. The Los Angeles Kings defenseman was charging hard to provide support in along the boards when he clocked Sutherland with a shoulder to the head. The contact was clearly unintentional, which probably didn’t make it hurt any less.
Sutherland was able to skate off under his own power and somehow return after 30 seconds of play. Why? Because he’s a hockey referee and not some soft baseball umpire.