Bruins' Rinaldo suspended 5 games by AHL for hit to head

The American Hockey League announced Monday that forward Zac Rinaldo has been suspended for five games, with two already served, for his hit to the head of Bridgeport Sound Tigers defenseman Kane Lafranchise on Friday.

Rinaldo, who's playing with the Boston Bruins' affiliate in Providence, was automatically suspended after receiving a match penalty for intent to injure as a result of the hit. It was his first AHL game since the 2012-13 season.

The 25-year-old now holds the unique distinction of being banned in two different leagues. He's also serving a suspension in the NHL for another illegal hit to the head, which he delivered to Tampa Bay Lightning forward Cedric Paquette.

In 52 NHL games this season, Rinaldo recorded one goal and two assists while accumulating 83 penalty minutes. He's still under contract next season, when he's owed $850,000.

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