For those keeping score at home, this equals this equals this:
That was Jarkko Ruutu of the Anaheim Ducks with a high hit on Martin Erat of the Nashville Predators, knocking him out of Game 4 and putting him out of Game 5 as well. Another view (via Tom Kindschi):
The NHL suspended Ruutu today for one game, as it previously did Chris Kunitz and Steve Downie for plays that were plenty more egregious than Ruutu's. From the NHL:
Anaheim Ducks forward Jarkko Ruutu has been suspended for one game for delivering a late hit to Nashville Predators forward Martin Erat in Game Four of their Western Conference quarterfinal last night, the National Hockey League announced today.
The incident occurred 4:00 into the second period and Ruutu was assessed a minor penalty for interference on the play. Ruutu's suspension will be served tomorrow night (April 22) when the Ducks host the Predators in Game Five of the series.
Looking at the play again, you think this is a (a) reputation-based suspension or (b) suspending to the injury or (c) a little of both? Or do you find this play to be as heinous as, say, a Chris Kuntiz elbow?