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Carl Hagelin’s Swede-on-Swede crime gets him three games

Ottawa Senators v New York Rangers

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 12: Carl Hagelin #62 of the New York Rangers skates with the puck against Erik Karlsson #65 of the Ottawa Senators at Madison Square Garden on January 12, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)

Nick Laham

Carl Hagelin undoubtedly sent a few sad-face emoticons to Daniel Alfredsson for the elbow he delivered in Game 2 of the New York Rangers-Ottawa Rangers series, but it wasn’t enough for the NHL. Brendan Shanahan sent down a thunderous decision: the speedy Swede will sit three games for his indiscretions.

Hagelin might not be a household name just yet, but he’s been a great compliment to two marquee, expensive talents in Brad Richards and Marian Gaborik lately. His speed and tenacity have opened up some interesting possibilities for his veteran linemates, but now the Rangers must look to another avenue to be the third man on that top line.

If things go especially poorly, Hagelin could very well be done for the 2012 playoffs. Of course, the Rangers could also cruise in the next three games and give the young winger a little extra rest. Either way, it’s a significant verdict that might just be a sign that Shanahan isn’t going to stand pat for every questionable hit that comes down the pike.

(Then again, it might have been different if Gaborik was the guy throwing the ‘bow.)

So what do you think? Do you think Shanahan’s longest suspension of 2012 was too severe, just right or insufficient? Do tell.