Alexander Karmanov's time as a San Jose Sharks prospect isn't off to the best start.
The 7-foot-1 defenseman, who the Sharks selected 201st overall in this past summer's draft, has been issued a three-game suspension by the Ontario Hockey League for a cross-check in Sunday night's game against the Sudbury Wolves.
While Karmanov's North Bay Battalion were trailing 2-0 early in the second period, the Moldovan defenseman cross-checked Wolves forward Brayden Bennett in the head from behind after the whistle had already been blown. Karmanov was immediately rewarded with a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct. Now, he'll also miss the Battalion's first three regular season games.
North Bay's season will begin on September 18, when they visit the Barrie Colts. Karmanov will also miss games against the Oshawa Generals and the Brampton Steelheads. He'll be eligible to return for the Battalion's fourth game of the season against the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds on September 26.
Considering Karmanov is heading to the NCAA next season, it's difficult to imagine this is the start he envisioned to his final OHL campaign.
