Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse has been suspended for one game following a cross-check to the head of Los Angeles Kings forward Quinton Byfield during a game on April 14, 2025. The NHL Department of Player Safety announced the suspension on April 16, 2025, after reviewing the incident and conducting a hearing.
The incident occurred with 5:24 remaining in the second period at Rogers Place. Nurse delivered a cross-check to Byfield, who was on the ice at the time. The play resulted in a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for Nurse. Byfield did not return to the game, and Kings head coach Jim Hiller did not provide an update on his condition.
In its official explanation, the NHL Department of Player Safety stated that Nurse made “the decision to deliver an intentional cross-check that makes head contact on an opponent lying on the ice and was delivered with requisite force .” The league acknowledged that while the cross-check was not delivered with exceptional force, … was deemed intentional and warranted a suspension.
Nurse will miss the Oilers’ final regular-season game against the San Jose Sharks. This game holds no bearing on the playoff standings, as the Oilers are set to face the Kings in the first round of the … for the fourth consecutive season.
Darnell Nurse, 30, has recorded … . Quinton Byfield, 22, has amassed 54 points (23 goals, 31 …
The suspension adds another chapter to the ongoing rivalry between the Oilers and Kings, who are set to meet in the playoffs once again. The previous three series have all been won by the Oilers, but the Kings’ recent 5-0 victory over Edmonton, which secured them the No. 2 seed … , suggests a competitive series ahead.
This incident also highlights the NHL’s continued emphasis on player safety and the enforcement of rules against head contact. The league has been consistent in issuing suspensions for similar infractions, aiming to deter dangerous plays and protect players’ well-being.
As the playoffs approach, both teams will need to focus on discipline and composure to avoid costly penalties and suspensions that could impact their postseason success.
