Spezza to have in-person hearing for kneeing Jets' Pionk

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Jason Spezza will have a hearing via Zoom on Tuesday for kneeing Winnipeg Jets defenseman Neal Pionk, the NHL Department of Player Safety announced Monday.

Spezza can be suspended for more than five games since it's an in-person hearing.

Pionk received a two-game suspension for kneeing Maple Leafs defenseman Rasmus Sandin during the contest.

Both players delivered controversial hits in Sunday's chippy affair. Pionk caught Sandin with a knee, and Spezza retaliated while Pionk was in a vulnerable position soon after.

Sandin was unable to put weight on his leg when he exited the contest. There's no update on his status to this point.

Maple Leafs forward Wayne Simmonds also received a $2,500 fine for cross-checking Jets forward Jansen Harkins.

Winnipeg won the contest 6-3.