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The NHL has suspended Buffalo Sabres ahead Jeff Skinner three video games for cross-checking Pittsburgh Penguins ahead Jake Guentzel within the face Friday evening on the KeyBank Center.
Late within the third interval of the Penguins’ 4-3 time beyond regulation win, Skinner and Guentzel exchanged slashes after the whistle. That’s when Skinner cross-checked Guentzel twice, as soon as within the shoulder and as soon as within the face.
Both gamers got penalties for slashing, however Skinner additionally acquired a five-minute main for catching Guentzel up excessive on the cross-check.
On Saturday, the NHL Department of Player Safety launched a video explaining why Skinner acquired a three-game suspension for his actions.
“It is vital to notice that this isn’t a case of a stick using up unintentionally as gamers battle in entrance of the web or come collectively naturally in the midst of play,” the NHL stated in its clarification. “Skinner initiates an altercation right here that ends with him aggressively and purposefully placing an opponent within the face with a keep on with ample drive to advantage supplemental self-discipline.”
Not solely did Skinner’s cross-check value him three video games, nevertheless it additionally value the Sabres a possible victory. The Penguins went on to attain an influence play objective in time beyond regulation to defeat Buffalo moments after Skinner’s penalty.
Skinner, who has 13 objectives and 32 factors on the season, will now miss video games in opposition to the Penguins, Los Angeles Kings and Colorado Avalanche. He might be eligible to return Dec. 17 in opposition to the Arizona Coyotes.
