New York, NY – The National Hockey League handed down a one-game suspension to Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith on Wednesday for his actions in the second period of Tuesday's Game 3 of the Western Conference finals.
Keith was given a double-minor for high sticking at the 7:58 mark of the frame in an eventual 3-1 Los Angeles victory, after delivering a one-handed slash to the face of Kings forward Jeff Carter. His actions were in response to Carter appearing to slash downward on the blueliner's loose glove as he attempted to pick it up off the ice.
"This is more serious than a case of a player simply having to be responsible for his stick," said league senior vice president of player safety Brendan Shanahan in a video explanation of the ruling.
It's the second time Keith has felt the sting of league discipline, following a five-game ban back in March of 2012 for elbowing Vancouver's Daniel Sedin in the head.
Game 4 of the Western finals will take place on Thursday in Los Angeles. Chicago holds a 2-1 series edge.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.