After his meeting with the NHL Department of Player Safety on Wednesday, Toronto Maple Leafs forward Michael Bunting has been suspended three games for his illegal hit to the head of Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak.
Bunting was assessed a match penalty after making contact the defenseman’s head. Cernak, who did not have the puck, fell back and laid down on the ice before he was assisted in leaving the game. He did not return.
Toronto lost 7-3 to Tampa Bay in Game 1. Calle Jarnkrok took over in Bunting’s place on a line with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner and scored a goal.
Before the announcement was confirmed, it felt like the Maple Leafs already knew they’d be without Bunting. During Wednesday’s morning practice, rookie Matthew Knies skating in a regular jersey, while Bunting wore the extra grey, anticipating a suspension.
They anticipated correctly and will be without Bunting until Game 5, once / (if) they return to Toronto.
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