Chicago Blackhawks forward Brett Connolly received a four-game suspension from the NHL’s Department of Player Safety. The veteran winger’s ban comes as a result of interfering with and injuring Stars’ forward Tanner Kero on Saturday night.
The play brought about a scary situation as Tanner Kero was out cold on the ice and had to exit on a stretcher. The Dallas forward was alert and responsive after his departure but went to the hospital for further evaluation.
Connolly initially received a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for the hit. The league then announced he would have a hearing for it on Sunday.
Connolly’s Suspension
Now ineligible for the next four games, Brett Connolly won’t suit up for the Blackhawks until the calendar flips to 2022. He will miss the following contests:
- Thursday, December 23 vs. Dallas
- Tuesday, December 28 vs. Columbus
- Wednesday, December 29 at Winnipeg
- Saturday, January 1 at Nashville
The first game he can return for is on January 2 when the Blackhawks host the Calgary Flames.
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