Carcillo's suspension revised to six games

NEW YORK -- National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman today ruled that the suspension to New York Rangers forward Daniel Carcillo will be revised to six (6) games for his actions in violation of Rule 40.4 in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final in New York on May 22.

Carcillo had originally been assessed a suspension under Rule 40.3 for deliberately applying physical force to an official. A violation of that particular Rule requires a minimum suspension of "not less than ten (10) games."

After considering Carcillo's appeal during a hearing at the NHL's New York office on Friday, May 30, the Commissioner ruled that Carcillo's actions were more appropriately deemed a violation of Rule 40.4 for deliberately applying "physical force to an official for the sole purpose of getting free of such official during or immediately following an altercation." The Commissioner determined that as appropriately re-classified under Rule 40.4, and under the totality of the circumstances, a suspension of six (6) games was the proper penalty.

The National Hockey League does not and will not, under any circumstances, tolerate or condone the abuse, physical or otherwise, of our on-ice officials. The strict and proper enforcement of Rule 40, therefore, plays a critical role in safeguarding the integrity of the game by maintaining a safe and respectful working environment for our officials.

As Carcillo already has served three (3) games of the suspension that was originally assessed on May 23, he will be eligible to return for Game 4 of the 2014 Stanley Cup Final.

For the complete Commissioner's Opinion please click here (PDF).