McSorley Verdict Due Next Friday

Testimony concluded Thursday in Marty McSorley’s assault trial, with the NHL player to learn the judge’s verdict next Friday.

McSorley, who has played in the NHL for 17 seasons, could get up to 1 1/2 years in prison if convicted of assault for clubbing Vancouver’s Donald Brashear in the head with his stick during a Feb. 21 game between Boston and Canucks.

The judge will try to determine whether such an attack in an NHL game constitutes assault.

On Thursday, former Boston player Steve Heinze testified that hits to the head are a “common occurrence” in the NHL. “You always get your bell rung a few times a season,” said Heinze, now with the Columbus Blue Jackets. “Pinpoint accuracy is not something that occurs as a guy is flying by you. You can only aim for a spot.”

His testimony was intended to support the defense’s contention that stickwork is common and to reinforce McSorley’s claims that he intended only to hit Brashear in the upper shoulder.

McSorley’s lawyers also called Bruin trainer Don Del Negro, who testified McSorley had wrist and shoulder injuries at the time. McSorley, 37, testified Wednesday his injuries might have hampered his ability to land his stick where he intended.