Bruins' statement regarding Bettman's ruling

BOSTON, MA -- The Boston Bruins issued the following statement on Tuesday, December 24 in regards to Commissioner Bettman's decision to uphold the 15 game suspension that the NHL Department of Player Safety issued to Bruins forward Shawn Thornton on December 14.

Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli's statement:

"We respect the process including the ability to attend the hearing with Commissioner Bettman in support of Shawn. At this time, we will decline comment until the process is complete and Shawn has exhausted all rights available to him."