Islanders’ Maxim Tsyplakov suspended three games for illegal check in Flyers game

Islanders forward Maxim Tsyplakov will miss a few games after the NHL’s Department of Player Safety announced he will be suspended for three games for an illegal check in Thursday’s game against the Philadelphia Flyers.

In the first period of the Islanders’ 5-3 loss, Tsyplakov gave a hit to Flyers forward Ryan Poehling. Poehling was cutting to the low slot when Tsyplakov came down and laid a hit that looked to hit the Flyers forward’s head.

Tsyplakov was not issued a penalty despite an official review deeming it a legal hit.

Here’s the Maxim Tsyplakov hit #Isles

pic.twitter.com/gc93FIqJzI

— The Elmonters (@TheElmonters) January 17, 2025

The NHL’s Department of Player Safety does have the right to review potential illegal hits after games and give disciplinary action.

Tsyplakov had a hearing with the DoPS over the phone on Friday when the suspension was levied.

While Tsyplakov is expected to appeal, he will not be able to practice or be with the team until his appeal is heard. If the three-game suspension remains, Tsyplakov will return against the Carolina Hurricanes on Jan. 25.

Islanders coach Patrick Roy announced Friday that Hudson Fasching will be going to the IR, which opens up a spot for Marc Gatcomb who was recalled to presumably take over for Tsyplakov.

Tsyplakov, 26, is in his first season in the NHL after going undrafted. In 44 games played, the forward has seven goals and 12 assists and is a plus-eight when he’s on the ice this season.

In Thursday’s loss, Tsyplakov was held scoreless but did have three shots on goal in 19 shifts and 17 minutes on the ice.

The Islanders’ next game is against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday night at home.