Montreal Canadiens forward Ryan White has joined Patrick Kaleta of the Buffalo Sabres as owners of the longest suspensions for the 2013 NHL season. White was given a 5-game ban Wednesday afternoon after his hit to the head of Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Kent Huskins:
Along with a fighting major, White was given five minutes for elbowing and a match penalty. He later accepted an invitation for an in-person hearing at the NHL offices, typically meaning at least a 5-game suspension.
From the NHL:
Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and based on his average annual salary, White will forfeit $18,581.10. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.
Huskins suffered a concussion on the play and it appears his season is over with.
As Shanny notes, this wasn't your typical bodycheck. The angle White takes isn't that of one going to lead to a heavy hit; instead it's one that will cause Huskins' head to get clipped by the Habs forward's shoulder.
White's ban will begin tonight against Pittsburgh. He'll be eligible to return for the regular season finale on April 27 against Toronto.
Changing behavior has been the goal of the Department of Player Safety. Five games is a significant punishment. Next time Ryan White attempts to make this type of body check, he'll be sure he's on the proper angle to deliver a clean blow.
Follow Sean Leahy on Twitter at @Sean_Leahy
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