Justin Nachbaur receives major suspension for abuse of official vs Laval Rocket

This is the kind of sequence you never want to see on a hockey rink. Justin Nachbaur, of the Hershey Bears, has just been dealt with firmly by the American Hockey League’s department of player safety.

Last night in Laval, the big forward shoved a linesman during the Rocket’s win, and the verdict came down: a three-game suspension.

We can agree that the league has zero tolerance for this type of behavior. It’s simple — the safety of officials is non-negotiable, no matter the frustration of the moment or the intensity of the battle.

Let’s be honest, Nachbaur completely lacked judgment on this sequence against the Rocket. In his NHL career, he hasn’t played a single game, but he’s already building a reputation as an agitator who crosses the line in the AHL.

In the month of February, every point counts for the Montreal Canadiens’ farm team. This kind of distraction rarely helps a team, even if Nachbaur wears the colors of the opponent from Pennsylvania.

The big man ends his night with a minus rating and a suspension that will cost him dearly. The Rocket’s quick momentum was not slowed by his misplaced acts of intimidation toward the officials.

Justin Nachbaur suspended three games after incident with official in Laval

The Bears organization will have to go without his services for the next three games. It’s a fair decision that protects the integrity of the game and those who officiate it.

This morning, Laval Rocket fans are still talking about that heavy sequence. We want intensity, solid body checks, but never at the expense of the referees.

Let’s admit it, Nachbaur crossed a red line that no one should cross. The American Hockey League sent a clear message: you do not touch the officials, period.