A late hit in the new Rule 153 is defined as a bodycheck to a skater who is in a vulnerable position because of not being in control or possession of the puck anymore and will be sanctioned with a penalty. It can be a minor penalty if the opponent is aware of the impending contact. A major penalty and automatic game-misconduct penalty is assessed for a late hit against an unsuspecting opponent or a match penalty if the opponent is recklessly endangered.
An additional clause also sanctions an early hit, meaning a bodycheck before the opponent has received the puck, with an interference penalty.
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