Gary Bettman and the NHL have fined young Canadiens forward Oliver Kapanen
The young Montreal Canadiens forward Oliver Kapanen, who played his first career game in the NHL last night, has just received a fine.
It's still a ridiculous rule, but because he did his traditional "victory lap" without his helmet before playing his first game with the Habs, Kapanen has indeed earned himself a fine.
It's worth noting that for the past few years, it has been strictly forbidden to step onto the ice without a protective helmet, except for certain veteran players who have a grandfathered right. However, rookies are required to wear their helmets at all times on the ice.
Oliver Kapanen fined
Check out the moment that earned him this penalty.
Still, what a beautiful moment for the young player, and we are convinced he would say it was worth it.
After all, you only get to play your first-ever game in the National Hockey League once. And in Boston, no less!
Kapanen, just 21 years old, is a 6-foot, 180-pound forward. He was the 64th overall pick by the Montreal Canadiens in 2021 (second round) and recorded 34 points in 51 games last season in Finland's top league.
In the playoffs, he tallied 14 points in 13 games, and his progress over the past few months has been truly remarkable.
Last night against the Bruins, live from Boston, he already notched his first career NHL point, an assist, and added one shot on goal in just over 10 minutes of ice time, maintaining a plus-minus of 0.
I have a feeling we're going to love this kid. Let's hope he stays in Montreal for as long as possible.
