The NHL suspended Dallas Stars defenseman Jason Demers two games for his elbow on Pittsburgh Penguins forward Nick Bonino.
The league explained that many “counter-hits” are OK, and that sometimes a penalty is sufficient punishment when such measures go over the line. However, the NHL believes that Demers deserves a suspension because he used his elbow recklessly and forcefully.
The contact happened during the Stars’ eventual win against the Penguins on Thursday. Losing two games of pay costs Demers $36,559.14.
He received a major and game misconduct during the game itself.
Bonino appears to be OK.