New York Islanders Pummels Justin Abdelkader on The Ice (Highlight)

The play started with New York Islanders defenseman Johnny Boychuk tossing Detroit Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader to the ice, and it ended with Boychuk on the ice tossing haymakers.

New York Islanders defenseman Johnny Boychuk sure took the time he needed to get healthy. In his absence, the Islanders went 6-10-2 and missed the 34-year-olds physical presence on the blue line.

The Islanders need someone to spark some life in them. Ross Johnston was called up to inject some toughness into the roster, but as a fourth liner his minutes and thus impact on the game is limited.

Boychuk, on the other hand, plays top pair minutes alongside Nick Leddy. He’s out there 20-25 minutes a night. He’s got plenty of opportunities to get some hits in.

Being down 3-1 after a horrendous first period the Isles were clearly frustrated. And so when Boychuk got the chance to lay someone out he did. Turns out players don’t enjoy being absolutely manhandled on the ice.

The Incident

So Johnny Boychuk absolutely levels Justin Abdelkader along the boards. It was a clear takedown. Nothing out of the ordinary, except for how Abdelkader’s ego probably felt afterward. So what does the Red Wings forward do? Slew foots Boychuk in front of the net.

Which then leads to Johnny Boychuk giving him the business….again.

Watch how Boychuk who is on the ice with Abdelkader and both linesmen draped over him gets at least three solid shots in on Abdelkader’s face. The sheer will to get his fists to Abdelkader’s face is impressive.

If only the Islanders had half as much metaphorical fight in their step in their game.

Next: Three Players To Watch Against Red Wings

I don’t usually condone violence but in hockey is part of the fabric of the game. And this is certainly an element the Islanders have been missing. The Islanders missed Johnny Boychuk and so did we.