Hertl suspended 2 games for high-sticking Flames' Lindholm

San Jose Sharks pivot Tomas Hertl has been suspended two games for high-sticking Calgary Flames forward Elias Lindholm during Sunday's contest, the NHL Department of Player Safety announced Monday.

Hertl received a minor penalty on the play, which occurred during the opening faceoff of the third period. Lindholm stayed in the game, scoring twice shortly after to ensure a Calgary win.

"I get frustrated," Hertl said after the game, according to Curtis Pashelka of the Mercury News. "Three times to the shoulder, I just tried to slash him on the stick. The stick flew a little high; it's a terrible penalty. I don't think I even had him close to the face, but it looks bad. A mistake by me - can't do that. You never try to hit a guy high, but it happens."

Hertl leads all Sharks forwards with 32 points in 33 games this season. The 29-year-old will miss Tuesday's rematch against the Flames and Thursday's contest against the Minnesota Wild. He's eligible to return on Dec. 27 against the Vancouver Canucks.

Lindholm, 28, is also enjoying a strong campaign, pacing the Flames with 28 points in 31 appearances.

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