Former NHL player and TNT hockey analyst Paul Bissonnette was involved in an altercation at a Scottsdale steakhouse on Sunday night. The incident occurred when Bissonnette attempted to intervene in a situation where a member of a group was harassing the restaurant manager after his friend was asked to leave.
Describing the incident in a video posted on X, Bissonnette mentioned that he stepped in to help the manager who appeared shocked and surprised by the aggressor's behavior. Bissonnette's intervention led to a physical confrontation as members of the group started throwing punches, resulting in a brawl that extended from the restaurant to the parking lot and a nearby store.
During the altercation, Bissonnette reported being kicked in the head three times and receiving multiple punches while also delivering blows against seven men involved in the scuffle. Following the incident, Scottsdale police arrested six individuals on charges of assault and disorderly conduct.
Bissonnette, who played in the NHL from 2008 to 2014, notably spent his final six seasons with the Arizona Coyotes before transitioning to a broadcasting career. The former hockey player's actions in attempting to defuse the situation at the steakhouse underscore his willingness to stand up against inappropriate behavior and protect others in public spaces.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining civility and respect in social settings, as well as the potential consequences of engaging in violent behavior. Bissonnette's swift response to the situation highlights the need for individuals to take a stand against aggression and uphold standards of decency in public interactions.
For more NHL news and updates, visit the AP NHL hub at apnews.com/hub/nhl.
