The National Hockey League has taken action against Nick Cousins and the Ottawa Senators following an incident during pre-game warmups, now referred to as “Warmupgate.”
On Friday, the league announced fines: $25,000 for the Senators organization and $2,083.33 for Cousins. These penalties were issued for unsportsmanlike conduct that occurred during the warm-up session before Game 3 of the first-round playoff series between the Senators and the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday.
Cousins` individual fine represents the maximum amount allowed under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Footage captured during the warm-up showed Cousins directing a puck down the ice towards the net occupied by Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz.
The incident unfolded amidst ongoing tension between the two teams. Stolarz had previously incurred the Senators` displeasure, particularly after a series of slashes directed at Ottawa forward Ridly Greig in Game 2, which resulted in matching minor penalties for both players.
This followed an earlier collision in Game 1 where Greig crashed into Stolarz`s lower body during a play.
Following Game 3, Stolarz commented on his relationship with the officials, implying he had made a deal with them, stating: “Watch my back, and I`ll behave.”
Senators head coach Travis Green later made light of the situation involving Cousins and Stolarz, joking that it was an “active investigation” and characteristic of the “game within the game.”
In Game 3, the Toronto Maple Leafs secured a 3-2 overtime victory, their second consecutive win in extra time. This win pushed the Senators to a 3-0 series deficit, placing them on the brink of elimination.
Game 4 of the series is scheduled for Saturday.
