The Red Wings' Gustav Nyquist has been suspended six games by the NHL, according to Bob McKenzie of TSN.
During the first period of Sunday's game, Nyquist was engaged in a puck battle along the boards. After being cross-checked from behind by Spurgeon, Nyquist turned around, lifted his stick and speared Spurgeon in the face.
Nyquist was assessed a double-minor for high-sticking on the play. But that severe punishment awaited him became clear as Nyquist was invited to defend himself in person. He turned that down, opting for a phone hearing.
The Wings already were preparing to be without Nyquist Wednesday, with Tomas Tatar practicing in Nyquist's spot on a line with Henrik Zetterberg and Anthony Mantha.
It's a move that could benefit Tatar, who is without a goal in the last six games.
"He hasn't produced the last little bit but he's had lots of chances, and that's what I judge players on," Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill said earlier in the day. "If they are getting chances and they stick to it, then, over the long haul, you produce. With his ability, playing with Z, it can be a real good combination. Z's line with Mantha and Nyquist has been our best line over the last four or five games, and I believe that can continue with Tats there."
Zetterberg makes his wings better (Mantha's production took off after gaining Zetterberg as a center, and Nyquist's also spiked), and the Wings can ill afford quiet players as they seek to rise in the standings.
"I think Hank has played great hockey all season; it is always fun to play with him," Tatar said. "We are in a tough spot. We want to play better, and everybody can dig a little deeper and help this team a little more."
Zetterberg said: "I've played with Tuna many games this year; it's worked well. Hopefully, we can create some good offense."
