Calgary Flames’ Olli Jokinen receives three-game suspension for cross-check
Centre Olli Jokinen of the Calgary Flames was handed a three-game suspension as a result of his actions in a game against the Phoenix Coyotes on Wednesday 17 November.
Jokinen cross-checked Phoenix Coyotes left-winger Wojtek Wolski in the face during the third period of the game, and was given a five-minute major and a game misconduct as a result. The
Flames ended up losing the game by a score of 3-1.
The 31-year-old native of Kuopio, Finland disagreed with the league’s decision to suspend him, as he did not intend to injure Wolski.“I disagree with the league’s decision to suspend me
for three games," Jokinen told TSN.ca in a statement. “I believed from our discussion this morning that there was an understanding that my intent was not to injure and circumstances that resulted in my stick going higher than expected.”
He is not planning to protest the decision, however. “While I am upset with the ruling, I will abide by it and serve my three games while preparing to help my team when I return. I will
have no further say on the matter.”
The Flames also released a statement about the league’s decision to suspend Jokinen. “We are very disappointed that the league has ruled this incident worthy of a three-game suspension
for Olli,” the team said in a statement. “However, we respect both the review process and the league’s decision.”
Jokinen will return to the team on Wednesday 24 November, when the Flames travel to New Jersey to take on the New Jersey Devils. He has scored two goals and six assists for eight points
in 17 games this season.
Calgary returns to action on Friday 19 November, when they will play host to the Chicago Blackhawks.
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