In this file photo, Edmonton Oilers' Ben Eager celebrates after scoring a goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets' during the first period of their NHL hockey game in Columbus, Ohio January 17, 2012.Matt Sullivan/Reuters
Known more for scoring knockouts than goals, Edmonton Oilers forward Ben Eager allegedly found an off-ice outlet for his pugilistic talents this weekend.
According to reports, the 6-foot-2 left-winger and his brother, Michael, are facing assault charges following a bar fight at The Quail and Firkin Pub in Toronto's Rosedale neighbourhood early Saturday morning.
The general manager of the pub told CityTV that her doorman "was brutally attacked and hurt."
Video cameras caught the altercation and footage will be passed along to police, said Jennine Lombardo.
An ambulance took to the bouncer to hospital.
Toronto Police acknowledged the incident but refused to release any further details on Sunday.
The bruising Ottawa native was slated to make $1.1-million this year, but all NHL teams have stopped playing their idled players until the league's lockout is over.
Due to the lockout, the Oilers are taking a hands-off approach to Mr. Eager's alleged altercation. "We are aware of the reports, however we cannot comment any further at this time," said team spokesman J.J. Hebert.
The 28-year-old won a Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2010 and played a key role in several games, scoring game-winning goals against the Vancouver Canucks and Philadelphia Flyers.
But he's more famous for his fists. At 240 pounds, he's considered one of the league's toughest players, a role that has led to repeated suspensions. Last year, he was forced to sit out four games for sucker-punching Toronto Maples Leafs forward Colby Armstrong.
Patrick White