Gudbranson Takes Matters Into His Own Hands After Controversial Hit From Behind

Initially deemed a major penalty, the referees later downgraded it to a minor after a review. Gudbranson, receiving a minor penalty himself, made it clear he wasn't letting this slide. As both players sat in the penalty box, Gudbranson seized the opportunity to settle the score as soon as the penalties expired.

Gudbranson wasted no time confronting Cousins, leaving him visibly shaken and with a bloody nose. The aftermath saw Gudbranson receive a minor for instigating, a major for fighting, and a game misconduct. Additionally, Blue Jackets head coach faced ejection.

The incident underscores the potential avoidance of such confrontations had the referees made the correct call or if Cousins had chosen a different response.