Blackhawks Jamal Mayers Fined Without Appearing In Playoffs

The Chicago Blackhawks’ right winger Jamal Mayers has yet to appear in a single playoff game this postseason as he’s been a healthy scratch for head coach Joel Quenneville. Though Mayers hasn’t seen the ice, he still managed to get involved and stir up trouble in the process.

In warmups before Game 5 on Saturday night at the United Center, Mayers was caught shooting pucks into the Red Wings’ net from across the ice. According to TSN, the decision will now cost him as the NHL handed out a fine to the Canadian skater worth $1,600, which is equivalent to half a days pay.

Mayers was involved in the pre-game warmups with his teammates but he didn’t play in the game, and he only appeared in 19 games throughout the entire season. He finished the year with two assists and 16 penalty minutes, which made Quenneville’s decision to sit him throughout the playoffs that much easier.

Nevertheless, it’s always nice to have a veteran player in the waiting just in case another skater goes down due to injury or suspension. With that being said, the Blackhawks have kept Mayers with the team as they continue to do battle with the Red Wings in the Western Conference semifinals.

Jamal Mayers understood the league’s actions, and he also made it known that he doesn’t want to be a distraction for his teammates, though it may be too late for that.

“I was trying to get under their skin,” Mayers told ESPN after the Blackhawks’ morning skate before Game 6 on Monday at Joe Louis Arena. “I’m not going to hide behind it or lie to you. The league fined me and took the appropriate action and I’ll pay the piper.”

Maybe Mayers attempt to “get under their skin” actually worked, as the Blackhawks went on to beat the Red Wings 4-1 to force the Game 6.

With Jamal Mayers’ antics in the past, can the Blackhawks avoid elimination once again Monday night as the Red Wings look to finish them off at home?

[Image via Creative Commons]