Edmonton Oilers winger Vasily Podkolzin was ejected after attacking Anaheim Ducks defenseman Drew Helleson following a dangerous hit on Connor McDavid. The incident occurred during Edmonton’s 5-4 loss to Anaheim on Thursday at Rogers Place.
Just over eight minutes into the first period of the NHL game, Helleson delivered a shoulder-to-shoulder hit that sent McDavid crashing into the goalpost. The Oilers captain remained down briefly, clutching his leg, before heading to the dressing room for evaluation.
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Podkolzin immediately went after Helleson to defend his captain. He dropped his gloves near the end boards and unleashed several left-handed punches.
However, Helleson did not fight back. The Ducks defenseman covered his head and dropped to his knees as Podkolzin continued throwing punches. Officials quickly intervened to separate the players.
Watch the Video of Vasily Podkolzin fighting Drew Helleson:
The Oilers winger received 27 penalty minutes, including an instigator minor, fighting major, misconduct, and game misconduct. Officials ejected Podkolzin after he had played just 52 seconds.
Helleson received a two-minute minor for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Connor McDavid reacts to the hit & Vasily Podkolzin defending him
Speaking to reporters afterward, McDavid appreciated his teammate’s response.
“Yeah, I think people have me pegged as some type of robot,” McDavid said. “But I got feelings and emotions too. And, you know, when that comes out, it can rattle a game up. And, obviously, I appreciated the response from Podzi. As I said, I thought it was an unfortunate call. Didn’t like the call really one bit. It is what it is.”
The Oilers captain also criticized the dangerous nature of the collision.
“Those are plays that I’ve been really, really hurt on before. Going into the end wall, going into the net—those type of plays I find to be dangerous,” McDavid said.
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Despite the injury scare, McDavid returned to the game and recorded one goal and three assists. He also extended his season-opening point streak to 17 games.
However, Edmonton couldn’t capitalize on his four-point performance, suffering a 5-4 defeat against Anaheim.
