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Tom Wilson Ejected for Olympic Fight, Cleared to Play as IIHF Opts Against Suspension

The Canada forward dropped the gloves with France’s Pierre Crinon after a high hit on Nathan MacKinnon, highlighting the IIHF rule that makes fighting an ejection rather than a five-minute penalty.

Overview

  • Wilson and Crinon were assessed two minutes for roughing, five for fighting, and game misconducts, exiting Canada’s 10-2 win that also gave Wilson a Gordie Howe hat trick.
  • Elliotte Friedman and other reporters said there will be no supplementary discipline, leaving Wilson available for Canada’s quarterfinal and Crinon eligible for France’s qualification round.
  • Crinon’s forearm to MacKinnon’s head drew only a minor penalty and an apology; MacKinnon remained in the game before Wilson sought retribution on a later shift.
  • Teammates and staff, including MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby and coach Jon Cooper, praised Wilson for protecting a teammate and his physical impact.
  • The episode underscored the clash between NHL norms and IIHF rules as Canada finished group play 3-0 with a plus-17 goal differential and awaits its quarterfinal on Feb. 18.