THE STORY
On March 8, 2004, Todd Bertuzzi of the Vancouver Canucks punched Colorado Avalanche player Steve Moore from behind during a game, causing Moore to fall face-first and break his neck. Moore was stretchered off and missed the rest of the season. Bertuzzi was suspended indefinitely, the Canucks fined $250,000, and Bertuzzi faced assault charges and a civil lawsuit from Moore.
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
NHL teams and players
WHY IT MATTERS
The incident led to significant disciplinary actions, including Bertuzzi's suspension and legal consequences, and sparked widespread debate about player safety and conduct in professional hockey.