Capitals Ruffian Tom Wilson Escapes Real Punishment For Role In Brawl

While the rest of the NHL has gotten soft, Tom Wilson keeps getting away with buffoonery.

The latest example came Monday, when the Washington Capitals forward set off a massive brawl during the second period of a 6-3 road win over the New York Rangers.

It all began when Capitals goalie Vitek Vanecek made a save. Several players then became entangled and then tussled inside the crease. Wilson took it to another level, punching Pavel Buchnevich right in the head.

Of course, Wilson wasn't finished. He followed that by body-slamming Artemiy Panarin to the ice.

Inexplicably, Wilson received just a $5,000 fine for his role in the altercation. That's the max fine, but you would think he would've also gotten a suspension. In a league where players are no longer allowed to police themselves or retaliate, Wilson keeps getting away with these types of acts with a mere slap on the wrist.

"I figure you should have some more respect for the game and for the players," Rangers center Mika Zibanejad said of Wilson’s play. "I don’t honestly know where to start. It’s just horrible. Zero respect. I don’t know why I’m surprised, but yeah, just horrible."