NHL fines Chicago Blackhawks defenseman for actions in Saturday's game vs. Senators' Tim Stutzle

The play itself did not look especially violent in real time, but the league zeroed in on Grzelcyk's follow through and timing, which crossed into supplemental discipline territory. The Department of Player Safety rarely hesitates when stick work escalates.
Grzelcyk, 31, is in his first season with Chicago after signing a one-year contract worth $2.75 million last summer. The veteran defenseman was added for stability and puck movement, not unnecessary penalties.

In Saturday's game, Grzelcyk logged over 19 minutes of ice time and was used regularly on defensive zone exits. Chicago has leaned on his experience as younger defensemen rotate through the lineup.

The incident came midway through the second period as emotions picked up. Grzelcyk and Tim Stützle exchanged cross-checks in front of the net, but officials assessed Grzelcyk the extra minor, which drew immediate reaction from both benches.

Fans saw the replay and split opinions quickly, some calling it standard net-front pushing, others admitting Grzelcyk extended his arms just enough to draw attention.
The NHL made its position clear Sunday.

For a rebuilding Chicago team sitting near the bottom of the standings, details like this matter. The Blackhawks already rank among the league leaders in minor penalties taken, a trend the coaching staff has openly discussed.

This is the kind of moment fans groan about because it feels avoidable. Grzelcyk knows the spotlight that comes with veteran status, especially when younger players are watching how he responds after whistles.

Tim Stützle, 23, is one of Ottawa's most dangerous forwards, and net-front battles against him are constant. Still, the league has made it clear that retaliatory stick work draws fines, even when both players are involved.

The fine itself barely dents Grzelcyk financially, but the message matters more than the dollars. Chicago needs calm decision making, not post-whistle penalties that swing momentum.

As the Blackhawks push through another developmental stretch, moments like this shape trust. Grzelcyk's response on the ice over the next few games will matter far more than the fine itself.