In hockey, there has been a push to outlaw disrespectful behaviour on the ice, and now, Ethan Hay, a top Lightning prospect has found that out after recent comments.

Over the past few years, hockey, especially at the junior level has seen a massive shift to promote respect on the ice, but unfortunately, that doesn’t always mean players will abide by that. In the last couple of seasons, we’ve seen a few players suspended for the way they talk to officials or opposing players, and now, Ethan Hay, a top prospect of the Tampa Bay Lightning has just found of what happens when you do such things.

According to a release from the Ontario Hockey League, Hay, who was a seventh round pick of the Tampa Bay Lightning back in 2021 has been given a five-game suspension after his actions during the recent Saginaw Spirit game.

Following a thorough investigation, the league has determined that Hay violated the OHL Code of Conduct as a result of a remark made in reference to an opposing player. It is the position of the League that, though there are reasonable grounds to suggest that Hay’s remark was not uttered with malicious intent, it was delivered in a context that demonstrated a lack of awareness.

It’s unclear exactly what the comment was that brought on this suspension, but according to Rico Phillips, who serves as the OHL’s Director of Culture and Community, it warranted a suspension. The 19-year old has played in 13 games for Saginaw this season, posting five goals and 8 points in that time, but now he will miss some time and hopefully use the time away from the ice to reflect on his behaviour as a way to improve moving forward, as he won’t be eligible to return until November 13th.

Ultimately, there’s a difference between chirping a player on the opposing team and spreading hate/disrespect, and while Hay was not deemed to have spoken with malicious intent, it was enough for a suspension, so let’s hope he can learn to toe that line much better moving forward.