Follow @RickS7



The NHL announced Monday that Avalanche left wing Cody McLeod has been suspended for five games without pay for his boarding penalty against Detroit Red Wings defenseman Niklas Kronwall in last Thursday's game.

The incident occurred at 2:13 of the first period. McLeod was assessed a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for boarding.

Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement and based on his average annual salary, McLeod will forfeit $29,487.20. The money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

McLeod will be eligible to return Nov. 2 when the Avalanche plays the Montreal Canadiens at the Pepsi Center.

Director of Player Safety Brendan Shanahan explains his decision here, complete with video:

http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=60&id=464830&lang=en

Just my opinion, but I don't think McLeod's hit was as bad as Maxim Lapierre's against Dan Boyle, yet suspensions are the same.



*****

Check out www.nhl.com for stories on Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby heading to Monday night's game between the Avalanche and Penguins in Pittsburgh.

Join the Discussion: » 28 Comments » Post New Comment

» One-year deal for Johansson

» One more postseason disappointment

» Bednar cleared to coach tonight; MacKinnon Hart finalist

» Cale Makar a Norris Trophy finalist

» Jost: Do or die Game 5 tonight; Kadri suspension upheld