Oliver Lauridsen Faces Disciplinary Action Following Dangerous Hit in SM-liiga Game

Turku, Finland – Oliver Lauridsen, a Danish defenseman playing for TPS, is facing potential disciplinary action following a high-sticking incident during a SM-liiga game against Ässät on March 14, 2026. The incident, which occurred in the first period, resulted in a five-minute major penalty and game misconduct for Lauridsen, and has been forwarded to the league’s disciplinary committee for review.

The Incident

The play unfolded as Ässät’s Petteri Riihinen was engaged in a battle for the puck with TPS’s Eetu Päkkilä. Lauridsen, arriving as a third player, delivered a forceful check to Riihinen, making contact with his head. The hit left Riihinen injured and unable to return to the game. A video review confirmed the penalty, assessing a 5+PR for hitting the head or neck area.

“Absolutely absurd and senseless intervention. As the third player in the given situation, he comes into a fight between two players and hits Riihinen directly in the head. I don’t understand what was going through Lauridsen’s head,” said Topi Nättinen, a former player and current TV co-commentator and hockey expert, according to Ilta-Sanomat.

League Response and Potential Penalties

The SM-liiga has confirmed that the disciplinary committee will review the incident to determine if further punishment is warranted. Nättinen described the tackle as “a truly highly bad” and “outrageous,” adding he couldn’t recall seeing a similar hit in the league recently.

Game Outcome

Despite losing Riihinen to injury, Ässät went on to win the game 5-2, scoring a power-play goal during the five-minute major penalty assessed to Lauridsen. The win keeps Ässät in contention for a playoff spot, trailing Hämeenlinna by two points.

Lauridsen’s Background

Oliver Lauridsen, 36, has represented Denmark in twelve World Championships and two Olympic Games, including the recent games in Milan. The two-meter tall defenseman has a long and distinguished international career.