Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog suspended 2 games for boarding Blackhawks' Kirby Dach
Gabriel Landeskog landed an eight-year, $56 million contract with the Colorado Avalanche right before the longtime captain hit free agency.
Now he'll have to give up part of that.
The NHL's Department of Player Safety announced Thursday that Landeskog would be suspended two games for a boarding infraction against Kirby Dach during Wednesday night's 4-2 victory against the Chicago Blackhawks. He forfeits $70,000 in pay.
Dach, who finished the game, was down on one knee when Landeskog slammed him into the boards during the third period.
"Dach … is defenseless in this situation, sliding along the ice with little ability to evade or brace for contact," the league said in a video explaining the suspension. "Landeskog has enough time to recognize the situation his opponent is in."
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Landeskog, who had a goal and an assist in Wednesday's game, had three prior suspensions: four games for cross-checking in 2017, three games in 2016 for cross-checking and two in 2015 for an illegal check to the head.
With Landeskog's suspension, the Avalanche face the possibility of being without two members of their top line during their next game on Saturday.
Nathan MacKinnon has tested positive for COVID-19 and is in protocol. He could return for the game if he has enough negative tests beforehand.
Senators' Brady Tkachuk signs
The Ottawa Senators announced a seven-year, $57.5 million contract for forward Brady Tkachuk hours before their opening game.
Tkachuk, who missed training camp, has led the team in scoring the past two seasons, including 36 points in 56 games last season.
The Senators open at home Thursday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Avalanche's Gabriel Landeskog suspended for boarding Kirby Dach
