One key factor may explain the NHL's decision not to suspend Brad Marchand

The Montreal Canadiens pulled off an overtime win against the Florida Panthers. In overtime, Marchand was assessed a roughing penalty, and it can be said that his action was highly questionable.

He struck Mike Matheson in the face with an elbow while the Canadiens defenseman was in a vulnerable position. The good news is that captain Nick Suzuki scored the game-winning goal on the power play.

What is surprising is what came the next day. After the sequence involving Matheson, many were expecting a hearing from the Department of Player Safety.

The NHL delivered its decision. Brad Marchand gets away without consequences, and it's fair to say that it's hard to understand.

The first explanation being put forward is the simplest one: the NHL already punished the play on the ice, and it can decide that it ends there. On the video, some note that the elbow appears low and that Matheson is low on the ice. That doesn't close the debate, but it helps explain why it was allowed to pass.

The other reason circulating smells strongly of a showcase. The Panthers have the Winter Classic on Friday in Miami against the New York Rangers.

Marchand is a natural headliner because he draws reactions everywhere he goes. Suspending such a closely followed player just before an outdoor game could hurt the NHL.

The NHL loves it when its big event runs without disruption, and the pressure is real. A hearing, even a short one, always comes with a big headline and questions. Marchand can turn the page.

In the end, the Canadiens come away with the win, but the next game between the two teams will be closely watched.