Bennett suspended 3 games for hit to head on Paquette

Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett has been suspended three games for a hit to the head of Montreal Canadiens forward Cedric Paquette, the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced Sunday.

The play occurred during the first period of Florida's 5-2 victory Saturday. Paquette left the game but did return, while Bennett wasn't penalized.

This isn't a great hit from Bennett on Paquette. He did get a good chunk of chest/shoulder, but a lot of head contact as well. I think it's borderline per NHL rules(can argue about changing those), but it's a dangerous hit for sure as it's a terrible angle and high. pic.twitter.com/X4lgm2TvJK

- Bolts Jolts (@BoltsJolts) January 1, 2022

Bennett will be eligible to return Jan. 11 versus the Vancouver Canucks. He'll miss Tuesday's clash against the Calgary Flames, his first opportunity to play against his former team since being traded last April.

Bennett's posted 17 points in 26 games this season while averaging over 18 minutes per night.

Copyright (C) 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.