NEW YORK – In a stunning announcement by the National Hockey League this afternoon, the league stated that San Jose Sharks forward Raffi Torres has been suspended for 41 games, without pay, for interference and an illegal check to the head against Anaheim Ducks forward Jakob Silfverberg during a preseason game
The NHL’s Department of Player Safety announced the decision. Most pundits had suggested 20 games but the 41-game suspension is fully the half the season. 
The incident occurred at 12:45 of the first period. Torres was assessed a match penalty for illegal check to the head.
Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and, based on his average annual salary, Torres will forfeit $440,860.29. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.
The review of the play clearly demonstrates the check was illegal. Torres has been before the discipline committee in prior seasons and though not classified as a repeat offender he has been warned, fined or suspended on nine separate occasions.
It was an unacceptable hit in any situation but a preseason game was more egregious.
With NHL press release
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