The OHL has handed down one of the longest suspensions in the league’s recent history. Brampton Steelheads defenseman Luke Dragusica has been banned for the remainder of the season and playoffs stemming from his actions during a game on Nov. 14 for which he was assessed a match penalty for slashing.

With 2:11 remaining in the game, Dragusica swung his stick at Oshawa Generals forward Brady Blaseg’s head, resulting in a cut to Blaseg’s face. Blaseg was able to return to action in Oshawa’s following game.

In it’s ruling, the OHL stated the following:

"This decision follows a comprehensive review of the incident by the OHL Department of Player Safety that incorporated video, game reports, interviews and submissions from both Clubs. The deliberate use of a stick as a weapon to an opponent’s head, followed by further contact on a defenseless player, is a dangerous and unacceptable act that has no place in the OHL.

"As part of this sanction, Dragusica will be required to complete a League-mandated education, counselling and community service program and appear before a Reinstatement Panel before being eligible to apply for reinstatement for the 2026–27 season."

The OHL also said that it will provide support for all players involved, offering resources to support their well-being and physical and mental health. The league will also incorporate this incident into its continuing education for players as part of its player safety intiatives.

Dragusica has appeared in 70 OHL games in his career, spanning parts of the last three seasons. He had played in 15 games this season prior to his suspension. 

The Brampton defenseman is 18 and will still be age eligible for junior hockey next season.

Brampton still has 47 regular-season games remaining on its schedule, which will make Dragusica’s suspension among the longest the OHL has seen in recent history as it pertains to on-ice actions. 

It is the longest since the league suspended Michael Liambis for the season for a check to the head that fractured his opponent’s skull. That suspension for Liambis ended up being 68 total games including regular season and playoffs.

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