Detroit Red Wings forward Joe Veleno found himself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after he appeared to stomp on Winnipeg Jets winger Nino Niederreiter with his skate at the 2023 IIHF World Championship on Saturday.
During the Canada vs. Switzerland game this morning, Joe Veleno stomped on Nino Niederreiter with his skate. pic.twitter.com/k5uWGpaBnP
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) May 20, 2023
The incident occurred in the second period of the preliminary-round contest between Canada and Switzerland. Veleno wasn't penalized on the play, but Niederreiter was dinged for roughing after retaliating against the Canadian center.
Niederreiter sounded off on the controversial moment following Switzerland's 3-2 victory.
"It does not belong (in) our sport. You can't do it. It's too dangerous; blades are extremely sharp," he said, per reporter Tomas Prokop. "He (tried) to go in the battle to hurt me and (was) almost going to break my ankle.
"I'm very curious what (the) IIHF (will) do about it. I hope they do (a) better job."
Veleno's actions also drew the ire of Edmonton Oilers forward Evander Kane, who called the incident "disgusting." Kane missed 31 games this season after his wrist was cut by a skate in early November.
This is why fighting in Hockey is needed, it discourages ideas like this and helps police the game effectively. Disgusting play to watch. Especially after my injury this year. Embarrassing https://t.co/VwX2yA8C1Q
— Evander Kane (@evanderkane) May 20, 2023
It's unclear yet whether Veleno will face supplemental discipline from the IIHF.
Switzerland stayed perfect at the tournament with the victory and handed Canada its first loss.
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