Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb received a one-game suspension from the NHL's Department of Player Safety for his late hit on Anaheim Ducks forward Ryan Poehling during Game 5 of their second-round playoff series. The incident occurred nine minutes into the first period when McNabb delivered a dangerous check well after Poehling had released the puck.

Poehling suffered an apparent head injury and required assistance from teammates and trainers to leave the ice. The Department of Player Safety ruled that McNabb had sufficient time to avoid contact but instead finished the check with considerable force, warranting supplemental discipline. This marks the first suspension of McNabb's 14-year career.

McNabb's absence creates a significant hole in Vegas' defensive lineup for Thursday's Game 6. The veteran defenseman averages nearly 21 minutes per game in the playoffs and leads Golden Knights defensemen with 23 hits through the postseason. Kaedan Korczak is expected to replace McNabb in the lineup as Vegas attempts to close out the series and advance to the Western Conference final.

The Golden Knights hold a 3-2 series lead after their 3-2 overtime victory in Game 5. McNabb's suspension represents a substantial setback for a team that has relied heavily on his defensive contributions throughout these playoffs.