On Saturday, the NHL announced that St. Louis Blues forward David Perron has been suspended for six games for cross-checking Ottawa Senators defenseman Artem Zub during a game on Thursday.
The incident occurred in the third period of the game when Perron delivered a cross-check to Zub’s head while the two were battling for the puck. The hit resulted in Zub leaving the game with an upper-body injury and he has yet to return.
The NHL Department of Player Safety determined that Perron’s hit was an illegal check to the head and that it warranted supplemental discipline. As a result, Perron was suspended for six games and will forfeit $134,408.60 in salary.
Perron has expressed remorse for his actions and apologized to Zub and the Senators organization. He also said that he respects the decision of the NHL and will use this time to reflect on his actions.
This is not the first time Perron has been suspended for a hit to the head. Back in 2013, he was suspended four games for an illegal check to the head of Detroit Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader.
The suspension of Perron is a reminder that the NHL takes player safety seriously and will not tolerate any illegal hits to the head. Players must be aware that if they cross the line, they will face serious consequences.
