Kassian faces hearing for jaw-breaking stick

Vancouver Canucks' Zack Kassian faces an NHL hearing Monday for his high stick on the Oilers' Sam Gagner.

After breaking Edmonton Oilers forward Sam Gagner’s jaw with a high stick, Vancouver Canucks right wing Zack Kassian faces a hearing with the NHL’s department of player safety Monday.

The league offered Kassian an in-person hearing, meaning the forward could potentially face a suspension that exceeds five games.

At 18:33 of the second period during the Oilers’ 5-2 exhibition victory over the Canucks at Rexall Place Saturday, Kassian was given a double high-sticking minor after his stick hit Gagner in the face.

Gagner left the game and did not return. The Oilers announced Sunday that Gagner is out indefinitely with a broken jaw and that he will miss the start of the regular season.

The 24-year-old Gagner had 14 goals and 38 points in 48 games with the Oilers last season. He has 91 goals and 167 assists in 414 games over six seasons with Edmonton.

(with files from CP)

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