Leafs' Clifford suspended 1 game for hit on Lightning's Colton

Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer Kyle Clifford was suspended one game by the NHL Department of Player Safety for boarding Tampa Bay Lightning forward Ross Colton on Monday.

Clifford received a five-minute major and game misconduct after he caught Colton with a late hit from behind in the first period of Game 1.

Kyle Clifford has received a major and game misconduct for boarding on his hit on Ross Colton. #LeafsForever | #GoBolts pic.twitter.com/HS4FKaQYjh

- Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 2, 2022

Colton suffered a gash on his nose from the hit but he stayed in the contest.

Toronto managed to kill off Tampa Bay's ensuing five-minute power play.

Clifford's presence in the lineup was a controversial decision by head coach Sheldon Keefe, who opted to scratch popular veteran Jason Spezza.

The 31-year-old Clifford recorded one goal, two assists, and 31 penalty minutes in 23 games with the Leafs this season. This is the first suspension of his career.

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