Flames defenseman appealed for a reduction to three games in part to be eligible for Sunday's Heritage Classic outdoor game
Rasmus Andersson's appeal that his four-game suspension be reduced was denied by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman on Tuesday.
Andersson, the Calgary Flames defenseman, received the punishment for a late and high check on Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrick Laine in they final seconds of their Oct. 20 meeting.
Andersson, with the support of the team as well as his agent, appealed for the suspension to be reduced to three games. Because it was upheld, Andersson will not be eligible to play in Sunday’s Heritage Classic outdoor game in Edmonton.
From Bettman's ruling, Andersson acknowledged the hit was “not perfect” and he took responsibility. However, the commissioner upheld the original decision because Andersson launched himself upwards into Laine “almost ensuring contact with the head”, and with the game seconds from ending and out of reach “completely unnecessary, making it also irresponsible.”
Bettman also said he gave no weight to the argument a reduction was justified so Andersson could play in the outdoor game.
Laine was placed on IR on Monday. The Blue Jackets said his status is day-to-day due to an “upper-body” injury.
Andersson, who also forfeits nearly $95,000 in salary, is eligible to return for Calgary’s Nov. 1 home game against the Dallas Stars.