Bruins’ Jeremy Lauzon Gets Two-Game Suspension For Illegal Hit

The NHL department of player safety announced Sunday that Boston Bruins defenseman Jeremy Lauzon has been given a two-game suspension for an illegal hit on Arizona Coyotes’ Derek Stepan.

Lauzon was ejected from Saturday’s game for a late hit to the head in the first period. The Bruins did go on to win 4-2.

The hit came following Lauzon leaving the penalty box and into a scoring chance. Following his rebound shot to the corner, he finished a check on Stepan but was called for a high hit to the head as his forearm seemed to catch Stepan.

Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy debated the severity of the hit and didn’t think it deserved a match penalty.

“I don’t know the exact factors of, ok, hit to the head? Is it unsuspecting? Injury? That’s the only discussion I had with the official,” he said. “He was adamant that the player was out [for the game]. I was like well, ok, he got hurt but he’s in the game. He’s not out-out. There was a bit of a difference of opinion on that.”

Lauzon was uncomfortable as he answered questions and maintains that he was only finishing his check.

Lauzon, who makes $775,500 a year on his entry-level contract, was fined $8,037.64. That money will go to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

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The Bruins will host the Montreal Canadiens on February 12 at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBCS.