NHL Suspends Alexander Ovechkin Three Games

The NHL has suspended Washington Capitals winger Alex Ovechkin three games for his hit on Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Zbynek Michalek, according to TSN’S Bob McKenzie.

Three game suspension for Alexander Ovechkin.

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Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) January 23, 2012

Ovechkin did not receive a penalty on the play. Monday afternoon, Ovechkin declined comment on the hit as he awaited a decision from NHL VP of Player Safety Brendan Shanahan. Shanahan’s explanation for the suspension can be found here.

Ovechkin has been previously suspended twice and fined twice in his six-year career.

Ovechkin, 26, scored a goal and had two assists in the game after his hit on Michalek, who was not injured on the play. This season, Ovechkin has 20 goals and 19 assists in 47 games for Washington.