Jack Eichel comments on the monstrous hit he took from Matthew Tkachuk in Game 2

Things did not go well for the Florida Panthers last night. Coming in down a game in the Stanley Cup finals, Game 2 was almost a must-win. They wound up getting absolutely crushed by a score of 7-2. Of course, any time the Panthers are down in a playoff game, the head hunting starts. It's an effective strategy, if you can't win the game - make them sore for the next one. I have a feeling there were more than a few players spending extra time in the ice bath after this one. Chief among them: Jack Eichel.

With the Golden Knights up 4-0 and time dwindling in the second period, Jack Eichel committed Don Cherry's cardinal sin. He put himself in the trolley tracks. Cutting across the middle with the puck and looking up ice, he barely saw Matthew Tkachuk coming. Unfortunately, he stumbled trying to avoid the check, toe-picking, which made things even worse for him. The end result was a bone-rattling hit, a massive scrum, and a misconduct for Tkachuk.


Most who watched the hit were doubtful of Eichel returning to the series, let alone the game. In true playoff fashion, Eichel managed to return for the third period, much to the relief the Golden Knghts and their fans. He's been a catalyst for the team all playoffs and if they win this Cup, he should absolutely be in the Conn Smythe Trophy conversation. After the game, Eichel shared his thoughts on the hit.



Eichel was sure to mention that he thought the hit was clean. In real time, it didn't look like it, but after seeing several angles I agree. Tkachuk didn't target the head, jump, or catch him with a knee. He caught Eichel body-on-body and, well absolutely bodied him.

With the level of physicality and the level of play we've seen. It's easy to see why these two teams have made it through the gauntlet that is the NHL playoffs. Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday night in Florida. With the way the first two games have gone, it's going to be must see TV for hockey fans!