Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse has been suspended for one game following a cross-check to the head of Los Angeles Kings forward Quinton Byfield during a game on April 14, 2025.

The incident occurred late in the second period, resulting in Nurse receiving a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct.

The NHL concluded that Nurse acted with intent but noted the absence of exceptional force in the hit, which influenced the length of his suspension.

Reactions on social media were divided, with some fans condemning Nurse's actions and calling for a longer suspension, while others felt the penalty was excessive.

As a result of the suspension, Nurse will forfeit $48,177.08 from his salary, reflecting the financial impact of the disciplinary action.

NHL insider Chris Johnston confirmed the suspension details on social media, indicating Nurse's absence from the upcoming game against the Sharks.

This marks Nurse's fourth suspension in his NHL career, adding to previous suspensions for various infractions since 2016.

Byfield, who sustained an upper-body injury from the hit, was unable to return to the game and missed the subsequent game against the Seattle Kraken, with no updates provided on his condition.

Nurse has had a productive season, recording 33 points in 76 games, while Byfield has also performed well with 54 points in 80 games.

The Oilers will be without another key defenseman, Mattias Ekholm, for the upcoming series, making Nurse's return crucial for the team.

The NHL's ruling on Nurse's suspension has drawn comparisons to a similar case involving Andrew Mangiapane, who received a one-game suspension for a cross-check in 2023.