BY SPORTSNET STAFF
sportsnet.ca

THE CANADIAN PRESS

TORONTO -- Tampa Bay defenceman Pavel Kubina was suspended three games Thursday for hitting Chicago's Dave Bolland in the head.

Kubina elbowed the Blackhawks forward in the head in the first period of the Lightning's 4-3 shootout win Wednesday.

Kubina also forfeits US$60,096.76 of salary. He won't be eligible to return until March 17 at Montreal.

“I understand the decision rendered by the National Hockey League today and I will fully abide by the ruling," Kubina said in a statement issued Thursday. "I had no intent to injure David (Bolland) and I hope he can return to the ice quickly. I didn’t realize he was injured on the play until being notified by the NHL that a hearing would take place to review the hit.

“I have played nearly 900 games in the NHL and my history and record demonstrates that I am not the type of player that ever attempts to injure other players. I am sorry David was hurt on the play.

Bolland was been a key part of Chicago's offence during a recent eight-game winning streak. He has 15 goals and 22 assist in 61 games this season.