Sharks’ Joe Thornton could face NHL punishment over hit

LAS VEGAS (AP) — San Jose Sharks center Joe Thornton may face NHL punishment over a hit on the Golden Knights‘ Tomas Nosek of a Game 3 loss to Vegas.

The NHL’s Department of Player Safety said Monday it would hold a hearing with Thornton over the hit during the second period of Sunday’s Game 3. Vegas won 6-3 and takes a 2-1 series lead into Game 4 on Tuesday night.

Thornton was called for an illegal check to the head and defended it after the game. He has a goal and two assists in the series.