The NHL has levied its punishment for what transpired in Sunday’s preseason game between the Phoenix Coyotes and Los Angeles Kings, though it’s not likely to be met with much approval from Valley hockey fans.

The league announced left wing Paul Bissonnette has been suspended for 10 games for leaving the bench area to join an on-ice altercation. He was assessed a game misconduct penalty Sunday, and the suspension is automatic.

At 12:09 of the first period, Bissonnette was assessed a Game Misconduct penalty under Rule 70.6, which states: “A game misconduct penalty shall be imposed on the player who was the first or second player to leave the players’ or penalty bench during an altercation or for the
purpose of starting an altercation, from either or both teams.”

As for Jordan Nolan, whose hit on Rostislav Klesla led to the Coyote being carried off the ice on a stretcher, nothing will happen.

“The hit was punishing and resulted in Klesla suffering an injury,” NHL Vice President of Hockey and Business Development and Director of Player Safety said. “However, in delivering it, Nolan broke no National Hockey League rules.

“Therefore, supplemental discipline is not warranted.”

Bissonnette, who will forfeit $37,820.51 due to the suspension, will be eligible to return to the team on Oct. 24 when, incidentally, the Coyotes face off against the Kings in Los Angeles.

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