Suspension highly possible after Zach Whitecloud hits Matthew Knies in head similarly to Ryan Reaves

Ryan Reaves was recently suspended five games after he delivered a headshot on Darnell Nurse, and now Zach Whitecloud may be facing the same fate.

The first NHL goal by Fraser Minten gave the Toronto Maple Leafs an early edge over the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday.

But it didn't last all that long, as things turned grim against the Knights after Matthew Knies left with an injury courtesy of a controversial hit from Zach Whitecloud.

In a season where every high, dangerous collision turns into an instant focal point for fans and analysts alike, the Maple Leafs are growing accustomed to scrutiny.

Perhaps most recently, it came after Ryan Reaves' illegal hit against Edmonton, which garnered him a five-game suspension.

Now, it's Whitecloud's actions under the microscope of many questioning whether or not discipline will soon follow.

Physical play is part of hockey's appeal, but targeting an opponent's head crosses a line.

The hit sent Knies into a daze, unable to return, and Toronto announced his absence for the remainder of the game.

The possibility of a concussion has really fired up the fans, especially with the officials deeming the play clean.

On-ice, Captain John Tavares didn't hesitate to come to his teammate's defense, but the opinions off the ice certainly have been divided.

While the Sportsnet panel said the right call was made by the officials, the call has sparked a wave of frustration amongst Leafs fans, many of whom cite the clear head contact as proof a penalty should've been handed out for the hit.

The storyline of the game shifted in quite a hurry from the scoreboard to the health of Knies.

The Leafs ended up winning the game 3-0, but again, it begs the question of player safety and consistency of officiating in the NHL.

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