Prov1X is correct. Guessing Maskaant was not assessed a fighting major because Spears was considered the instigator in the fight. If the Refs deem Maskaant made "any considerable attempt(s)" to refrain from fighting, his fight is void from further suspension. In this case, from the AUS TV video, it appears he attempted to simply "tie up". Spears dropped the gloves first and threw a few punches before Maskaant dropped his gloves. One Ref (Blanchard) was only feet away during the whole leadup. Assuming Blanchard deemed Maskaant only engaged in defense of Spears being the aggressor.
Regardless if you are an X or Acadia supporter, agree or disagree...That would be enough to eliminate additional discipline/suspension to Maskaant.
Worth noting and should be kept in mind... The referee's report would bear heavy weight on the "automatic" or "hockey" based suspensions / considerations (ie: Maskaant). They were on the ice, they were involved and they would have made notes. They would also be the only ones with first hand knowledge of what directions they gave during the incident. Video would then be used to confirm the details contained in the report as well as anything that may have been missed. One has to remember... impossible and unfair to expect one official to see EVERYTHING that takes place with this amount of chaos going on simultaneously and at different spots on the ice.
Interesting that Robertson was not assessed anything for leaving the bench. Believe this is simply an oversight... but a poor one from the AUS perspective. Video clearly shows he left the bench.
The players on the ice at the time of the face off:
X: Studnicka (C), Spears (RW), Cianfrone (LW), Holwell (D), Thompson (D)
ACA: Southam (C), Maskaant (D), Farrell (RW)
Holwell and Cianfrone avoided suspension as well. Would be along the same lines as Maskaant. IMO... rightfully so. Cianfrone did a great job intercepting MacDonald from the Acadia bench at the outset and attempting to diffuse and "tie up" initially. That has to account for something.
Agree with ProV on Cormier. He is likely still under review. As is Digiacinto (and possibly others) for the same reason as Cormier.
Burns received an automatic extra game as O. MacDonald was the first player to leave the bench.
Peddle's 2nd game is because he has already had a game misconduct earlier in the year. Compounding effect.
TBD would be the 2nd wave... with considerations given to more than just the immediate actions/reactions. Would include info from interviews/investigation... including past behavior (even time outside the AUS). This is where the "subjective" stuff comes in... and will undoubtedly raise the ire of many / a few / some - at a minimum!
