UPDATE: Patrick Kaleta has officially been suspended for 10 games by the NHL. He should be able to return on November 2nd vs. Anaheim. Here is the explanation for the suspension.
Patrick Kaleta has a hearing with the NHL’s department of safety this afternoon at 2 p.m. regarding the hit to the head of Columbus’ Jack Johnson. Kaleta did not receive a penalty on the play, but because of the hearing, he will automatically miss five games.
Kaleta has already sat out for two games (against Chicago and Minnesota) and likely won’t be returning until next week. Remember, Kaleta is a repeat offender and has been suspended multiple times in the past few seasons, which could extend the suspension passed five games.
We want to know what you think about the hit and how many games Kaleta deserves to be suspended?
Take a look at the beginning and at the 1:24 mark for replays of the Kaleta hit:
Kaleta was suspended 5 games for this hit on Brad Richards:
He was also suspended four games for this head-butt on Flyers’ Jakub Voracek:
Kaleta has not helped himself as he continues adds another one on to the list of disciplinary actions. We will keep you updated throughout the day on the result of Kaleta’s hearing and any comments he has.