Sportsnet.ca -- The Philadelphia Flyers have recalled suspended forward Steve Downie, meaning the Flyers game in Calgary Thursday night will be game one of the 20-game suspension handed down by the NHL.

Flyers' GM Paul Holmgren revealed the club decision to TheFAN590 on Thursday afternoon.

The move comes on the heels of the AHL handing down a one month suspension to Downie for the hit on Ottawa's Dean McAmmond. The AHL decision means Downie would not be able to find playing time in the minors, so calling up the rookie to begin serving his NHL suspension makes sense.

Downie does not need to be in the building for the suspension to begin. Philadelphia visits Calgary on Thursday in the curtain raiser for both teams.