Vegas Golden Knights center Chandler Stephenson (20) handles the puck as St. Louis Blues defenseman Marco Scandella (6) defends. Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Golden Knights' Chandler Stephenson suspended three games for elbowing Kings' Tobias Bjornfot

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 4/1/21

The NHL's Department of Player Safety announced on Thursday that Vegas Golden Knights forward Chandler Stephenson has been suspended three games for elbowing Los Angeles Kings defenseman Tobias Bjornfot late in the second period of Wednesday's game that the Kings won 4-2.

"It is important to note that while we accept Stephenson's argument that he did not attempt to hit Bjornfot in the head, this is not a case where a blow to an opponent's torso or shoulder rides up and makes subsequent or glancing contact with his head. This is a direct and forceful elbow to an opponent's head, which caused an injury," the league explained, per Sean O'Leary of theScore.

Stephenson had no prior suspensions before he was ejected from Wednesday's contest and will forfeit $71,120.70. That money will go to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

According to the RotoWire Staff, Bjornfot is considered doubtful for Friday's matchup against the San Jose Sharks.

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