Ridly Greig, winger for the Ottawa Senators, will face disciplinary action on Monday for what has been described as a 'gutless' sucker punch during a playoff game. The incident occurred in Game 4 against the Carolina Hurricanes at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Greig's virtual hearing with the NHL's Department of Player Safety has been scheduled for this week.
Details of the Incident
During the second period of the Senators' 4-2 loss, a melee broke out after Ottawa's Tyler Kleven delivered a hard hit on Carolina defenceman Alexander Nikishin, who suffered a concussion. In the ensuing scrum, Greig punched Sean Walker in the head while Walker was being held in a headlock by Ottawa's Warren Foegele. The punch was not penalized during the game, but Walker later retaliated by hitting Greig from behind.
Reaction from the Hockey World
The incident drew widespread condemnation. Kelly Hrudey of Hockey Night in Canada called the punch 'gutless and disgusting' and praised Walker's retribution. Former Canucks defenceman Kevin Bieksa emphasized the need for honour in hockey. Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour criticized the lack of officiating, stating that player safety must be taken more seriously.
Greig's History and Potential Suspension
This is not Greig's first infraction. He was suspended for two games at the start of the 2021-22 season for a cross-check on Pierre-Luc Dubois. For this incident, NHL insiders predict a suspension of two or three games, as the hearing is virtual, limiting the maximum to five games. Greig acknowledged his lapse in control, saying, 'I have to do a better job controlling my emotions.'
The suspension will be served at the beginning of the 2026-27 regular season, as the Senators were swept by the Hurricanes in the playoffs. The hearing was delayed because general manager Steve Staios left for Europe after the series.
