Bruins Lucic Hit With One-Game Suspension
BOSTON (CBS) - Boston Bruins forward Milan Lucic has been suspended for one game by the NHL for his hit-from-behind on Flyers forward Zac Rinaldo on Saturday.
Lucic hit Rinaldo in the second period of Saturday's 6-0 Bruins win, and was given a major penalty and ejected. Rinaldo got up and started a fight with Boston's Nathan Horton after the hit.
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Lucic had a phone hearing with Lucic NHL disciplinarian Brendan Shanahan Monday morning. Shanahan explained the suspension in a video on NHL.com, and said the Lucic's history played a factor in determining his punishment.
"The overriding factor in elevating this check from behind to a penalty on ice to a suspension is his history of similar infractions, warnings, and a fine," said Shanahan.
This is the second time the 23-year-old Lucic has been suspended in his career. He was also hit for a one-game ban during the first round of the 2009 NHL playoffs for a cross-check to the head of Montreal's Maxim Lapierre.
Lucic had a hearing with Shanahan last month after his hit on Sabres goaltender Ryan Miller. He did not receive a fine or suspension for that play.
In 31 games this season, Lucic has 11 goals and 13 assists. He leads to team with 63 penalty minutes.
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The Bruins host the Canadiens at the TD Garden Monday night.
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