Kings’ McSorley Receives Three-Game Suspension

Defenseman Marty McSorley of the Kings has received a three-game suspension from the NHL for punching Doug Evans of the Winnipeg Jets.

The incident, which occurred March 2 at the Forum, began with what appeared to be slashing by Evans when the pair collided.

They crashed into the boards and Evans landed on his back. McSorley raised a fist overhis head and punched Evans in the face.

McSorley was given a game misconduct. The suspension was announced after a hearing in Montreal during the weekend.

In handing down the suspension, NHL executive vice president Brian O’Neill said “McSorley struck the Winnipeg player with his gloved hand . . . in a vicious manner when Evans was unable to defend himself.”

O’Neill acknowledged that McSorley was provoked in the fight, but added, “Provocation is not an excuse to create a foul. It is clearly a case of retaliation in a manner that is unacceptable.”

The Kings will not appeal, according to Coach Tom Webster, meaning McSorley will be sidelined beginning March 20 against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

“It’s a difficult time to lose a player when you’re in a fight for a division title,” Webster said. “But, we’ll have to deal with it.”