Flames defenseman to appeal lengthy suspension in an attempt to play in the Heritage Classic on October 29th
During the final seconds of a game between the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday, Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson lined up Jackets forward Patrik Laine and drilled him with a very dangerous elbow to the head with just 2 seconds to go to prevent Laine from scoring on the open Flames net.
The hit was certainly malicious in its intent and resulted in an injury to Laine. Because of this, Andersson was offered a hearing with the Department of Player Safety this week, which resulted in a 4-game suspension being issued.
According to Sportsnet's Eric Francis, the Calgary Flames and Rasmus Andersson will appeal the suspension.
"Source says the Calgary Flames are planning to appeal the four-game suspension handed to Rasmus Andersson today for his hit on Patrik Laine." - Eric Francis
If Andersson does decide to appeal, his suspension could be reduced from 4 games to a lesser number. Of course, the NHLPA would have to submit the appeal on his behalf. If an appeal is filed, it will likely be to try to sneak Andersson into the Heritage Classic on October 29th. As it stands, the blueliner wouldn't be eligible to return until November 1st if the suspension is upheld.
| POLL | ||
Should Andersson's suspension stay at four games or be lowered? | ||
| Stay at four games | 59 | 60.8 % |
| Should be lowered | 17 | 17.5 % |
| Unsure | 10 | 10.3 % |
| See Results | 11 | 11.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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