Mantha Hits Matinpalo as Senators Defenseman Leaves Game Injured

Ottawa Senators defenseman Nikolas Matinpalo left Monday night's game against the New Jersey Devils after a boarding collision with Devils forward Anthony Mantha caused an upper-body injury. The incident occurred in the first period and forced Matinpalo out of the contest. According to Daily Faceoff, Matinpalo was injured while battling for the puck near the Devils bench when Mantha drove him into the boards from behind.

Matinpalo lost balance and went head-first into the boards before a scrum formed between both teams. Mantha received a five-minute major penalty for boarding, according to Daily Faceoff and Markerzone. Ottawa could not score during the extended power play, while Matinpalo was ruled unable to return before the second period began.

Daily Faceoff reported that Matinpalo played 2:19 over four shifts before leaving. He had appeared in each of Ottawa's first six games of the season and entered the week averaging 17:45 of ice time per game.

The Senators defenseman is in his second full NHL season with Ottawa after arriving in North America in 2023, according to Daily Faceoff. He has spent time between the Senators and the Belleville Senators of the American Hockey League. Daily Faceoff reported that Matinpalo recorded five assists in 50 games last season with a minus-1 rating while averaging 15:38 of ice time. He also scored a goal for Finland during its bronze medal run at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Markerzone reported that the NHL had not announced a suspension or disciplinary hearing for Mantha after the boarding major. Any league review would focus on the contact point, the opponent's position and whether the check could have been avoided. Mantha's potential absence could affect New Jersey's lineup decisions, according to Markerzone. The Devils are waiting for clarity on whether the league will issue additional punishment after the incident.

In 101 NHL regular-season games, Matinpalo has recorded one goal and nine points, with 10 Stanley Cup Playoff appearances, according to Daily Faceoff.