Bowen Byram slashes Jesse Puljujarvi in the most painful spot

Buffalo Sabres defenseman shocked the hockey world with his brutal below-the-belt hit on Pittsburgh Penguins right winger Jesse Puljujärvi during today's game in the IIHF World Championships.

The International Ice Hockey Federation World Championships are underway in Czechia, with sixteen countries participating. However, during one game earlier today between Group A teams Canada and Finland, Bowen Byram slashed Jesse Puljujärvi between the legs, resulting in the Sabres defenseman's ejection.





This hit was in response to a prior, less obvious cup-check by Puljujärvi. This ultimately led to a game-misconduct and five-minute major penalty for Byram, and a two-minute roughing call on Pulljujärvi.




Fans watching the game are split on the calls given to each player. Many find the penalty disparity inappropriate, while others find any repercussions for these hits unnecessary.





Unfortunately for Puljujärvi, he had scored Team Finland's final goal before Byram's hit, with the final score of 5-3. Team Canada has now guaranteed their position in the quarter-finals.


Canada will play their next game tomorrow against Sweden, with Finland playing their match against Denmark the following day. With all teams vying to dethrone Czechia from the top spot, these will certainly be exciting games to watch.