Minnesota Wild forward Tyler Pitlick was ejected from Thursday’s NHL game against the Carolina Hurricanes after delivering a high hit that injured defenseman Jalen Chatfield, resulting in a match penalty and potential league review. The incident occurred in the first period and led to an immediate on-ice confrontation.
The game took place on November 6, 2025, at the Hurricanes’ home arena, with both teams competing in the early part of the season. With just over eight minutes left in the first period, Pitlick entered the offensive zone and targeted Chatfield, who had just passed the puck up ice. The hit made direct contact with Chatfield’s head, causing his head to snap back violently. Chatfield remained down on the ice for several minutes, requiring attention from medical staff before being helped to the locker room.
After a video review, officials assessed Pitlick a match penalty for an illegal check to the head, leading to his ejection from the game. This marked the first match penalty of the 2025-26 NHL season. In response, Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal instigated a fight with Pitlick, resulting in Staal receiving an instigating minor and a misconduct penalty. The confrontation underscored the intensity of the rivalry and the players’ commitment to defending teammates.
The Hurricanes announced that Chatfield would not return due to an upper-body injury, adding to the team’s defensive challenges. Carolina has been dealing with multiple injuries on the blue line, including Shayne Gostisbehere and limited availability of Jaccob Slavin. Coach Rod Brind’Amour expressed frustration after the game, stating, ‘This is just the way this year has gone. We just can’t get healthy and then keep losing key pieces. That’s rough.’
Pitlick, a 34-year-old veteran in his 11th NHL season, had played in nine games this year without registering a point. Chatfield, 29, has been a key contributor for the Hurricanes, averaging a career-high in ice time and recording three assists in 12 games prior to the incident. The hit not only impacted the game’s outcome but also raised concerns about player safety.
As a result of the match penalty, Pitlick faces an automatic suspension pending further review by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety. This could lead to additional games missed, affecting the Wild’s lineup depth. The league is likely to scrutinize the hit for its severity and potential disciplinary action, which may include fines or a multi-game suspension.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about player safety and head injuries in the NHL. Hits to the head are strictly penalized to protect players, and this event may prompt discussions about rule enforcement and preventive measures. Both teams will need to adjust their strategies moving forward, with the Hurricanes potentially recalling defensive depth from the minors.
Looking ahead, the NHL will conduct its review, and Chatfield’s recovery timeline will be closely monitored. The Wild and Hurricanes continue their seasons, with this game serving as a reminder of the physical demands and risks in professional hockey. The outcome of the disciplinary process could set a precedent for similar incidents in the future.