Tom Wilson, the Capitals’ enforcer, stirred controversy during Game 1 of their first-round series against the Rangers at Madison Square Garden.
In the second period, with the Rangers leading 3-1, Wilson delivered a vicious hit on Zibanejad near the boards. The hit drew criticism for its perceived malicious intent, despite the puck being in play.
Later in the period, Wilson again checked Zibanejad near center ice, sending him to the ice after the puck had already moved in a different direction. Zibanejad appeared to be unaware of the impending contact, making the hit even more questionable.
Wilson’s actions ignited a scuffle with Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider with just over a minute remaining in the game. Both players, along with Washington’s Dylan McIlrath, were given misconducts.
The Rangers and Wilson have a history of animosity, dating back to a 2021 incident where the Rangers accused him of injuring Pavel Buchnevich and Artemi Panarin. The NHL is currently reviewing the hits, and Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Tuesday night at MSG.
