Nikita Kucherov facing suspension after dirty hit

There is no doubt who the National Hockey League's leading point producer is this season, as Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov continues his absolute tear and journey toward yet another Art Ross Trophy win. Right now, his 133 points lead the likes of Nathan MacKinnon (130) and Connor McDavid (126). 

However, he could very well be facing a suspension for the second time in his career thanks to a predatory and dangerous hit from behind that he delivered to Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle that left him bloodied. 

Take a look at the hit below and see for yourself: 

Somehow, the hit went unpunished by the on-ice officials, drawing further scrutiny toward their overall performance this season. Meanwhile, Guhle left the game and did not return with what the Habs categorized as an upper-body injury. 

If Kucherov is suspended, it would mark the second time in his career that he was forced to sit for a dangerous hit. The first such occasion occurred during the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs after he hit Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Markus Nutivaara from behind while he was trying to return to his feet:

Should Kucherov be suspended for his hit last night, or merely fined? 

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