Backes suspended three games for actions in Bruins game against Devils

NEW YORK -- Boston Bruins forward David Backes has been suspended for three games, without pay, for an illegal check to the head of New Jersey Devils forward Blake Coleman during NHL Game No. 567 in Boston on Thursday, Dec. 27, the NHL Department of Player Safety announced today.

The incident occurred at 17:57 of the third period. Backes was assessed a minor penalty for illegal check to the head.
Backes is considered a repeat offender under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement and, based on his average annual salary, will forfeit $219,512.19. The money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.