Breaking down the Jacob Trouba hit on Martin Necas

Both parties were okay, and no infraction was called. Yet, there have been polarizing takes on the play. Some say Trouba should be suspended, citing the defenseman’s elbow being extended as he attempted to cut off Necas along the boards. Others say it was a clean play that only looked bad because Necas lost an edge and accidentally tripped Trouba.

On Wednesday’s edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Frank Seravalli and Colby Cohen give their takes on the now-viral play.

Frank Seravalli: We’ve seen Jacob Trouba turn up his intensity, in terms of his physical presence when it comes to the postseason. There has been no shortage of what we could say is controversial hits…I would say most of them are overblown. However, I don’t love any single part of this. It looks like, to me, Jacob Trouba’s of course lining [Necas] up, but once he realizes he’s gonna get him square, he then raises his left elbow to try and catch his head on the way back.

Colby Cohen: We’re talking about all hypotheticals, since there was no contact. It looks terrible. Necas goes down, I do think that helps propel Trouba to go up a little bit higher. I don’t like the fact the elbow comes out, but again, he doesn’t hit him. It’s all hypothetical. If Necas stays up there, maybe that ends up going through his chest and rides its way up…I think Jacob Trouba is the biggest and cleanest hitter in the NHL.

You can watch the full segment, and the entire episode here…