Capitals Have No Update On Carlson, Laviolette Calls Benn’s Play ‘Dirty’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In the dying minutes of regulation, Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson was hustling on the backcheck to stop Jamie Benn from scoring on the team’s empty net. While he’d keep the rally alive and prevent the ENG, Carlson took a hard spill into the end boards after a cross-check from behind by Benn.

A livid Carlson was giving it to the officials as he headed down the dressing room early, and there was no call on the play. However, Benn and Tom Wilson were given matching roughing penalties. Head coach Peter Laviolette had no update on No. 74 or his status following a 3-2 defeat on home ice, but he did have quite a few thoughts on Benn’s hit.

“He gave a lot of help [sending him into the boards],” head coach Peter Laviolette said of Benn. “That’s dirty.”

Reckless play by Jamie Benn here… no penalty was called. John Carlson's response? Not thrilled, to say the least.#TexasHockey #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/Efj8axGjKn

— Hockey Daily 365 (@HockeyDaily365) March 20, 2022

READ MORE ON WHN: Takeaways From Capitals 3-2 Loss To Dallas Stars

Laviolette also said the league and NHL Department of Player Safety “have to” take a look at the hit and review it while determining if there will be any disciplinary action.

“That’s one of our best players,” Laviolette added.

Stars head coach Rick Bowness had different thoughts on the play.

“I mean, that’s two guys going for a loose puck. He gives him a little shot in the hips and he goes down… so I hope [no disciplinary action],” Bowness said.

Carlson skated 25:55 in the loss while recording four shots, two hits and two takeaways. He also picked up his 41st assist of the season, marking his third straight game with a helper. He now has 11 goals and 52 total points on the season, good for sixth in league scoring by a defenseman (T-Kris Letang).