Did Sean Durzi Avoid Discipline After Controversial Headbutt?

The NHL has yet to issue any supplemental discipline for Utah Mammoth defenceman Sean Durzi following an incident in Sunday’s game against the Vegas Golden Knights involving Rasmus Andersson.

The play occurred late in the first period, with roughly 3:28 remaining, during a scrappy board battle involving multiple players. Durzi and Andersson became entangled in a scrum along the boards, with Andersson tied up by the officials. Durzi leaned in with a heabutt that left Andersson visibly irrate and immediately gesturing toward officials, trying to point out what Durzi had done. It appeared the officials missed it.

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No penalty for headbutting was called on the ice. Instead, Durzi, Andersson, and Brett Howden were all assessed roughing minors as the scrum was broken up.

Replays appeared to show Durzi delivering an obvious headbutt while the two were face-to-face. While the action looked intentional, the contact was relatively minor and Andersson remained in the game without issue.

There has been no official word from the NHL’s Department of Player Safety, who is likely to review the play. Many fans will be surprised if Durzi is not given a suspension or a fine. As of Sunday morning (April 20, 2026), no further discipline has been announced, effectively clearing Durzi to play moving forward.

Analysts on Sportsnet described the decision as a “fortunate break” for Durzi. Reaction online was split, with some calling it a “dirty play,” while others framed it as part of a heated, playoff-style scrum.

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