NHL players face suspensions ahead of 2026-27 season

As the 2026-27 NHL regular season approaches, several players face upcoming absences due to disciplinary actions taken during the previous spring's playoffs.

Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy is serving a six-game suspension following a slashing incident involving Buffalo's Zach Benson. McAvoy is expected to return to action on October 13 in San Jose. Meanwhile, Ottawa Senators player Ridley Greig is serving a two-game suspension after sucker-punching Carolina's Sean Walker during a decisive game four. Greig is scheduled to return to the lineup on October 6 against Detroit.

In Raleigh, Carolina Hurricanes forward Nikolaj Ehlers is preparing for his second season with the team following a career year. After signing with the Hurricanes and winning the Stanley Cup, Ehlers recorded 26 goals and 71 points last season. He noted that while the initial adjustment to head coach Rod Brind’Amour's system was challenging, he now feels comfortable with the team's style of play.