Trevor Zegras, the promising forward of the Anaheim Ducks, has been handed a three-game suspension by the NHL for interference after delivering a high hit on Michael Rasmussen of the Detroit Red Wings. The suspension was announced by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety on February 26, 2025, following Zegras's involvement in the incident during their February 23 match.
The play occurred late in the second period, with Zegras executing the hit at 17:17, reportedly leaving his feet to make contact with Rasmussen’s head after the Detroit forward had released the puck. Despite the potentially dangerous nature of the hit, officials did not call any penalty during the game, which ended with the Red Wings defeating the Ducks 5-4 in overtime.
The league's Department of Player Safety was quick to review the incident, categorizing it as “a late, high hit” and stating, “Players who are not in possession of the puck are never eligible to be checked.” The explanation continued to state, “Contact is made outside the window where a check may be legally finished,” highlighting the recklessness of Zegras's actions.
Post-game, Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan confirmed the severity of the situation, declaring Rasmussen unavailable for the following game against the Minnesota Wild, as he was considered day-to-day with injury. McLellan shared his growing concern, stating, “When a player gets a blow to the head and doesn’t return, it’s never a good sign.”
This is the first suspension for Zegras, who has played since his NHL debut in 2021. His suspension will cost him $89,843.76, which will be directed to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. the Ducks star has had a difficult season, scoring only seven goals and registering nine assists across 34 games. This follows several challenges, including knee surgery he underwent last December.
Despite these setbacks, the Ducks have shown some improvement recently, with their record standing at 7-2-1 over their last ten games. While Zegras has struggled, he is seen as getting back on track post-recovery, with six points since returning from injured reserve.
Notably, this situation puts Zegras's future with the team under scrutiny as the NHL trade deadline approaches. He has been mentioned as a potential trade candidate, reflecting the uncertain state of his career amid his underperformance this season.
Following the suspension, Zegras will be eligible to rejoin the lineup on March 4 when the Ducks face off against the Edmonton Oilers. The Ducks will need to navigate his absence during this stretch, as they currently lack depth on their roster due to injuries.
The NHL’s penalties for head hits continue to tighten, emphasizing player safety and cautioning against actions deemed dangerous on the ice. The response from the NHL and the subsequent disciplinary actions reflect the league's commitment to ensuring the physical safety of its players.
For now, the Ducks, along with Zegras, will need to regroup as they prepare for their next game. The hope is for Rasmussen to heal swiftly and return to his own gameplay, as his contributions have been significant for the Red Wings this season, especially since he recorded nine goals and seven assists across 56 appearances.