Jared Spurgeon avoids suspension after trying to break Pavel Buchnevich's ankle

UPDATE: Spurgeon has officially avoided suspension and has been assessed a $5,000 fine for crosschecking Pavel Buchnevich.

Our earlier published report below.

The Minnesota Wild started their post-season off on the wrong foot by getting absolutely out-classed yesterday evening in a 4-0 loss to the St. Louis Blues.

The frustration amongst the Wild's players was clear and was perhaps best personified by captain Jared Spurgeon. Late in the game with the Wild down and out Spurgeon delivered a vicious crosscheck to the ankle of Blues forward Pavel Buchnevich.

Check it out:

What are you doing!?! A crosscheck is rarely a smart play... but a cross check to a guy's ankle!?! Not sure I've ever seen that one before...

According to Wild insider Michael Russo though, it looks like Spurgeon will avoid suspension for his transgression and is likely looking at just a fine.

Check it out:

Honestly, I feel like the Wild have dodged a bullet with this ruling. Here's hoping the team gets their head on straight for Game 2.