NHL linesman's $10.2M lawsuit against Calgary Flames, Dennis Wideman sent to arbitration

A $10.2-million lawsuit filed by an NHL linesman against the Calgary Flames and defenceman Dennis Wideman has been stayed by ajudge and ordered to be heard by an NHL arbitrator.

Alberta Court of Queen's Bench Justice Willie deWit made the ruling Friday afternoon after thedefendantsapplied to stay the lawsuit earlier this year.

• $10.2M lawsuit filed against Flames,Wideman

DeWit agreed with thedefendants' position that NHL linesman Don Hendersonmust abide bytheagreement between theNHLand its members includingofficialswhich says disputes like this onefallunderthe umbrella of employment issues andmust be dealt with through league arbitration.

Henderson had argued the matter should remain in court because, based on their prior involvement with Wideman's suspension, league commissioner Gary Bettman and the league showed bias.

Henderson cross-checked

Henderson was hit byWidemanduring a game against the Nashville Predators on Jan.27, 2016.

In the second period,Widemantook a hit from Predators'MiikkaSalomaki. Moments later,Widemanwas skating toward the Flames' benchwhen he cross-checkedHenderson, who had his back to thedefenceman.

Widemanwas suspended for 10 games.

Flames defenceman Dennis Wideman hits linesman

9 years ago

Duration 1:22

Linesman Don Henderson would stay in the game.

In his statement of claim filed last April, Henderson said he was still not able to work because of his injuries, suffering"a limitation of activities and loss of enjoyment of life."

The lawsuit claimed Henderson suffered head and neck injuries and a concussionwhen he was "violently struck."

The injuries costHenderson$10 million in lost income and future earnings, according to the lawsuit, which also seeks $250,000 in general and special damages.

Speaking with reporters in Calgary on Friday before deWit delivered his decision,Bettmanrefused to comment on the lawsuit because it was before the courts.

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