Chychrun’s hit on Cousins overturned after review

Washington Capitals defenseman Jakob Chychrun was left without a penalty after officials reviewed and rescinded an initially assessed five-minute major for his hit on Ottawa Senators forward Nick Cousins. Cousins was helped off the ice and did not return during Washington’s 3-2 overtime victory over Ottawa Tuesday night.

The collision occurred with about three minutes remaining in regulation. Cousins was carrying the puck along the boards when Chychrun lowered his shoulder and struck him. Cousins’ head hit the glass and then the ice. Teammates and Ottawa’s training staff helped him off the playing surface.

Referees Brandon Blandina and Beau Halkidis initially assessed Chychrun a five-minute major. After reviewing the play, they overturned the call, determining that the contact did not warrant a penalty. The ruling left Chychrun without a penalty for the hit.

Senators coach Travis Green said after the game that Cousins was “not doing great.” Green also said he was surprised by the officials’ decision and believed the hit was to the head of a player who was not ready for it. Cousins did not go to the hospital, according to a postgame account, but the reports did not establish a...