Lightning's Cal Foote Fined For Cross-Checking

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Cal Foote has been fined $2,125 for cross-checking Anaheim Ducks forward Buddy Robinson.

#TBLightning defender Cal Foote fined $2,125 (maximum allowable under the CBA) for cross checking #NHLDucks forward Buddy Robinson. #GoBolts #FlyTogether pic.twitter.com/fbU5ETGCru
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) January 22, 2022

It isn't too surprising to see Foote receive a fine for this. Robinson had his back turned during the incident, so he was in a vulnerable position and didn't see it coming. Even if there was bad blood between the two earlier on, this is the kind of cross-check that truly warrants some discipline.

Following it, Foote and Robinson would get into a fight, but that's just not the correct way to start one. Robinson isn't the type to shy away from the physical side of the game, so he likely would have dropped the gloves if confronted straight on.

Nevertheless, do you feel that Foote's play was worthy of a fine? Let us know in the comments!