SPORTSNET.CA

San Jose's Mike Grier has escaped suspension for his hit on Chicago's Aaron Johnson in the Sharks' 3-2 overtime victory Wednesday night, Sportsnet has learned.

Instead, Grier was fined $1,000 after he hit Johnson into the boards in the second period. Johnson remained on the ice for several minutes before leaving the game. Grier was given a five-minute boarding major and a game misconduct.

Grier said afterward that he did not intend to hurt Johnson.

"I was just trying to finish my check," Grier said. "I don't know if he didn't see me or what, but I guess I kind of caught him by surprise."