Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith suspended six games
Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith has been suspended six games for his high-stick hit on Charlie Coyle of the Minnesota Wild, NHL Player Safety announced on Friday.
In Tuesday night’s game, Keith swung his stick and hit Coyle in the nose. He then received a match penalty.
Keith declined an in-person hearing to review his actions. He opted to address his actions with the league over the phone.
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Keith has been suspended twice in his career. In 2012 he got five games for an elbow to the head of Vancouver Canucks forward Daniel Sedin, and then missed one game for high sticking Los Angeles Kings forward Jeff Carter in 2013.
The Chicago Blackhawks have four games remaining on the season after Friday night's contest with the Winnipeg Jets. Keith will miss Game 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs, which begin April 13.
Keith can appeal the decision.
- Christopher Chavez