White suspended seven games

SAINT JOHN - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League has come down hard on Saint John Sea Dogs forward James White.

The league announced Wednesday afternoon that White has been suspended for seven games for a check to the head on Moncton Wildcats defenseman Sean Stewart during Saturday's contest at TD Station. White was given a five-minute major and game misconduct for the hit. Stewart definitely did not look good following the hit.

Here's the league's rationale for the suspension (video can be seen here):

While carrying the puck through the neutral zone, the Moncton player (Sean Stewart – #25 White) was hit to the head by his opponent (James White – #24 Blue). 

It was the St John player’s responsibility to avoid such contact, as we have been clear that we would not accept these types of hits. The fact that the Sea Dogs player is bigger than his opponent is not an excuse; he still should have the shoulder or chest as a target in every situation. 

Therefore, the QMJHL Department of Player Safety imposed a 7-game suspension to James White from the Saint John Sea Dogs.

Most seem to be surprised by the length of this suspension - and rightly so. There have been more blatant head shots in the past that resulted in shorter suspensions. If the league wants to give hits like this seven games to help player safety, cool - but all hits like this need to be given seven games then. This would seem to be setting quite a precedent for the upcoming season, and it will be interesting to see if the league can finally stay consistent with its suspensions (positive thoughts!).

White has been on Saint John's top line with Nicolas Guay and Josh Lawrence, so this is a blow to both White and the team. Dawson Stairs moved up to the top line on Saturday and looked pretty good.

The Sea Dogs were without defenseman Jordan Spadafore last weekend due to a four-game suspension for boarding that was handed out during the pre-season.

Saint John begins the "White suspension era" on Saturday in Sydney.