On November 25, 2024, during a matchup between the New Jersey Devils and the Nashville Predators, Devils forward Timo Meier was involved in a significant on-ice incident. Midway through the third period, Meier attempted to poke the puck away from Predators’ goaltender Juuse Saros after a whistle.

This action led to a confrontation with Nashville forward Zachary L’Heureux, who took exception to Meier’s move. In retaliation, Meier delivered two cross-checks to L’Heureux, the second of which struck him in the face, causing visible injury. As a result, Meier received a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct, leading to his ejection from the game. 

Following a review by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety, Meier was suspended for one game without pay for the cross-checking incident. This suspension resulted in a forfeiture of $45,833.33, which was directed to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. 

The incident underscores the NHL’s commitment to player safety and its stance against retaliatory actions that can lead to injury. While physicality is an inherent part of hockey, the league continues to enforce rules that protect players from dangerous plays.