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The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has suspended a player for the remainder of the regular season and playoffs after his violent cut to the head last week left his opponent bloodied and unable to finish the game.
Brampton Steelheads player Luke Dragusica, 18, was suspended after the OHL Department of Player Safety reviewed the Nov. 14 game against the Oshawa Generals, where Dragusica slashed defenseman Brady Blaseg in the face.
Tristan Delisle (40) of the Oshawa Generals battles Luke Dragusica (23) of the Mississauga Steelheads during the third period at Tribute Communities Center in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, on December 13, 2023. (Chris Tanouye/Getty Images)
The incident occurred with just over two minutes left in the game.
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Video of the incident showed Dragusica striking Blaseg’s face with his cane, who immediately fell to the ground in apparent pain. While he was down, Dragusica proceeded to check on Blaseg.
A fight broke out between the two teams and the referees quickly intervened to separate the players.
Blaseg was treated by staff and video of the incident showed blood staining the ice where Blaseg was hit. He did not return to the game.
Dragusica will be required to complete a league-mandated education, counseling and community service program as part of his suspension. (iStock)
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“This decision follows a comprehensive review of the incident by the OHL Department of Player Safety that incorporated videos, game reports, interviews and presentations from both clubs,” the OHL said in a statement released Friday.
“The deliberate use of a stick as a weapon to an opponent’s head, followed by further contact with a defenseless player, is a dangerous and unacceptable act that has no place in the OHL.”
Dragusica will be required to complete a league-mandated education, counseling and community service program as part of his suspension. He will also have to appear before a reinstatement panel to determine his eligibility for the 2026-2027 season.
Tristan Delisle (40) of the Oshawa Generals battles Luke Dragusica (23) of the Mississauga Steelheads during the third period at Tribute Communities Center in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, on December 13, 2023. (Chris Tanouye/Getty Images)
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According the athletic, Blaseg suffered a cut on his mouth and bruises on his face, but returned to play in the team’s next game just two days later.
