Boston Bruins winger David Backes has been suspended for three games for interference on Detroit Red Wings forward Frans Nielsen. The hit took place late in the first period when the two teams met on Tuesday, March 6.
Backes was given a minor penalty for roughing by referees Jean Hebert and Tom Chmielewski.
Nielsen left the ice and did not return to the game; he’s expected to miss the Wings’ next few games.
The NHL’s Department of Player Safety cited the “substantial and forceful contact” of the check.
“In addition to the lateness of the check,” said the league, “what elevates this hit to merit supplemental discipline is the significant head contact that occurs and the force with which it is delivered.”
Backes had not previously been suspended in his 848-game NHL career. He forfeits $96,774.18 in salary as a result of the suspension.
