Carolina Hurricanes v Los Angeles Kings - Source: Getty — NHL fans call for Jalen Chatfield's head for takedown move on Connor McMichael after heated tilt - Source: Getty

"Insanely dirty": NHL fans call for Jalen Chatfield's head for takedown move on Connor McMichael after heated tilt

Modified Apr 03, 2025 02:59 GMT

NHL fans on social media reacted after Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jalen Chatfield took down his opponent during Wednesday's matchup against the Washington Capitals.

In the third period, Chatfield dropped his gloves with Connor McMichael after grabbing him as he tried to skate away. The two traded punches, but Chatfield delivered a monstrous move, forcing McMichael down to the ice and causing his head to strike hard.

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It was deemed by many to be a dangerous move that could have seriously injured the Caps player. Here's how fans on X/Twitter reacted to Chatfield's takedown:

"That was insanely dirty wtf," one fan said.

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Another chimed in:

"That’s a trip and slamming a guys head to the ice. This f*ck better get a game."

Here are some more reactions from fans on X:

"I'll be there in-person, on 4/10, in Washington when Mcllrath kicks the crap out of Chatfield....," another fan commented.

"Dirty af but also WSH shouldn’t start playing bush league hockey and then expect no retaliation," one fan wrote.

"Ridiculous, bush league move by Chatfield. What are you going to do @NHLPlayerSafety?," a fan asked.

"Hate announcers trying to say it was dirty .. it’s a fight, don’t do it if you don’t want things to happen that can hurt you, especially taking off your helmet and gloves on ice attacking another player," another fan added.

Jalen Chatfield and Connor McMichael were both subsequently punished with a game misconduct. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes won the game 5-1 in the end.

About the author

Abhishek is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda with over 2 years of sports reporting experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. He became a fan of ice hockey after watching NHL fight videos on YouTube, which led to him professionally writing about the sport and his continued interest in all things hockey.

A fan of the Boston Bruins, Abhishek considers their incredible comeback win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 playoffs as the most iconic moment in the NHL. His admiration for the six-time Stanley Cup winners also comes from the team’s storied history, distinctive black and gold uniform and their success in the sport. His all-time favorite NHL players are Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, for their ability to perform at the highest level consistently.

Abhishek ensures his reporting is fair and balanced by being well-researched in his details, which he expects to be relevant, up-to-date and in line with ethical standards. His specialties are doing detailed match analysis and covering fan reactions.

Abhishek enjoys music, traveling and going on walks with his three German Shepherds in his free time, along with learning about horticulture.

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