Hayden Hodgson Ejected as Kings Edge Senators 6-5

Hodgson Ejected for Boarding Clarke

Ottawa Senators forward Hayden Hodgson had his night cut short on Thursday in Los Angeles. Hodgson received a major penalty and a game misconduct for boarding Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke during the second period.

The hit happened with 8:45 remaining in the middle period. Clarke was positioned just below the goal line when Hodgson drove him into the boards. According to the game broadcast, Hodgson charged toward Clarke at 21 mph before making contact.

A brief scrum broke out right after the hit. Kings forward Erik Haula intervened and received a two minute penalty for roughing Hodgson.

Kings Build Lead Before Senators Rally

The incident came during a tough stretch for Ottawa. Los Angeles had just scored three goals in a span of 4:03 to pull ahead 4-1, chasing Senators goaltender Jonas Johansson from the net.

Discipline issues hurt Ottawa through the first two periods, with the team committing six penalties. Los Angeles took advantage on special teams. Haula and Artemi Panarin scored power play goals to push the Kings lead to 5-1 heading into the third period.

For Hodgson, time in the penalty box has been a theme. Over five seasons, he has appeared in only 24 NHL games. Including Thursday, he has racked up 51 minutes in penalties.

Late Push Forces Overtime

Ottawa produced a huge response in the final period. The Senators scored four goals in the third to tie the contest at 5-5 and send the game into overtime.

The Kings managed to recover in the extra period, ending the night with a 6-5 victory.

What it means for the next game

Ottawa Senators at San Jose Sharks (NHL, Sat, 31 Oct): San Jose Sharks win 47%, Ottawa Senators win 53%; projected score San Jose Sharks 3, Ottawa Senators 3. Our safest pick: Senators +2.

Buffalo Sabres at Los Angeles Kings (NHL, Sat, 31 Oct): Los Angeles Kings win 29%, Buffalo Sabres win 71%; projected score Los Angeles Kings 3, Buffalo Sabres 4. Our safest pick: Kings +3.