Nazem Kadri won't return to Avalanche lineup before potential Game 7
Arbitrator upholds forward's 8-game suspension for hit earlier in NHL playoffs
Colorado Avalanche forward Nazem Kadri saw his eight-game suspension for an illegal hit upheld by an arbitrator hours before Game 5 on Tuesday in a second-round series against Vegas.
Kadri has already served six games of a suspension he was given after an illegal check to the head of St. Louis Blues defenceman Justin Faulk in Game 2 of their first-round Stanley Cup playoff series. Faulk sustained a concussion, according to the report, and didn't play in the final two games as the Avalanche swept the Blues to advance.
WATCH | Kadri gets match penalty for hit to the head:
Colorado was holding out hope Kadri might be available for Game 5 in Denver. But the National Hockey League and NHL Players' Association announced the decision by arbitrator Shyam Das.
The NHLPA originally appealed the suspension to league commissioner Gary Bettman, arguing a four-game suspension was more appropriate. The commissioner upheld the ruling on May 31.
Kadri's final game of the suspension will be Game 6 on Thursday in Las Vegas. He would be eligible to return should there be a Game 7 or if the Avalanche advance. The series is tied at two games apiece.
It was the sixth suspension of Kadri's career.
The 30-year-old Kadri was the only Avalanche player to suit up in all 56 regular-season games. He finished with 11 goals and 32 points while leading team in faceoff wins.
If the suspension — the sixth of Kadri's career — is not completed during the playoffs, any remaining games will be served at the beginning of next season.
