Toronto Maple Leafs forward Michael Bunting has been suspended for three playoff games for his illegal check to the head on Tamp Bay Lightning defenceman Erik Cernak, the NHL’s department of player safety announced Wednesday.
The incident occurred during Game 1 Tuesday of the Stanley Cup Playoffs opening series with 4:20 remaining in the second period.
Bunting checked Cernak, who didn’t have the puck, in the head knocking the blue-liner onto the ice.
Bunting received a match penalty and game misconduct. Cernak went to the dressing room and did not return to the game. He has been ruled out for Game 2 with his injury.
Already up 4-2, Tampa Bay added two more goals on the ensuing power play.
The Lightning won the game 7-3 to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Game 2 goes down Thursday in Toronto. Watch at 7:30 p.m. ET on Sportsnet or SN NOW.
