Penguins’ Acciari Gets Cheap Shot From Brenden Dillon, Helped Off the Ice

Winnipeg Jets defenseman Brenden Dillon is no stranger to delivering controversial hits to the Pittsburgh Penguins. He was kicked out of the game Tuesday and assessed a major penalty after delivering a high hit, possibly an elbow to Noel Acciari’s head early in the second period.

Accairi was bloodied and struggled to stand. He had to be helped off the ice.

The Penguins scored twice on the major penalty, and a 1-0 lead quickly became a 3-0 lead after Jeff Carter and Bryan Rust each scored from near the crease.

Referees initially assessed only a major penalty, but after review, Dillon was also given a match penalty, which carries an automatic review by the NHL Department of Player Safety.

Dillon should be suspended, but he’s evaded extra punishment before.

The former Washington Capitals defenseman also broke Teddy Blueger’s jaw on Jan. 24, 2022, at PPG Paints Arena. Blueger missed more than a month after requiring surgery, and his play suffered for the remainder of the season.

Brenden Dillon receives a match penalty for an illegal check to the head on Noel Acciari #NHL | #GoJetsGo | #LetsGoPens
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— The Cam & Strick Podcast (@CamandStrick) February 7, 2024