Colby Armstrong.

THE CANADIAN PRESS

TORONTO -- The NHL suspended Atlanta Thrashers forward Colby Armstrong for two games without pay Friday for hitting an opponent in the head during a game.

Colby was suspended for using his elbow to hit Washington Capitals forward Mathieu Perreault in the head during a game Thursday night. Armstrong wasn't penalized for the hit, which occurred at the 12:40 mark of the second period.

Perreault was injured on the play but returned later in the game.

As a result of the suspension, Armstrong will forfeit US$24,870.47 in pay. The money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

Armstrong will miss Saturday's game at Pittsburgh and Tuesday's home contest versus New Jersey. He will be eligible to return to the lineup next Friday at Washington.