Lucic suspended 1 game for punching 'unsuspecting' Connauton
Los Angeles Kings forward Milan Lucic has been suspended one game for his punch to the head of Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton on Saturday night.
The NHL's Department of Player Safety described the incident as a "punch to an unsuspecting opponent" in its announcement Sunday.
Lucic retaliated after Connauton slashed him in the third period of Saturday's 3-2 Coyotes victory.
Connauton was given a minor penalty for slashing, and Lucic was assessed a roughing minor and a game misconduct.
Lucic criticized referee Brad Meier after game.
"I mean, if I don't react, I don't think he even calls a penalty," Lucic said Saturday night.
He served the suspension Sunday against the San Jose Sharks.
The 27-year-old winger was suspended for one game in 2009, and another in 2011.
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