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The NHL has suspended Montreal Canadiens forward Ryan White five games for his hit on Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Kent Huskins, the league announced Wednesday.
The incident occurred at the six-minute mark of the first period of Monday night's game. White connected with Huskins' head while the defenseman was attempting to set-up a breakout. Both players would not return to the game, as Huskins was diagnosed with a concussion and White was given a match penalty.
The Department of Player Safety requested an in-person hearing with White, which enabled discipline in excess of a six-game suspension. White accepted the invitation and attended the hearing in New York City on Wednesday morning.
Obviously, the league opted not to administer a maximum penalty.
In the video announcing the suspension, it's explained that White was given a five-game suspension because he targeted Huskins' head. Huskins did not appear to alter his positioning, which placed the onus on White to administer to a clean check.
In the department's opinion, White overshot his hit and directed his force in an upwards motion.
White has no suspension history and Huskins was injured on the play, both of which played a factor in the ruling.
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