Elias fined for hit on Habs' Blunden

New Jersey Devils star forward Patrik Elias has been fined $2,500, the maximum allowed under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, for boarding Montreal Canadiens forward Mike Blunden during Thursdy night's game in Newark.

The illegal check occurred at 18:54 of the first period, and Elias was dealt a minor penalty for boarding on the play.

The fine money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

The Devils won the game 5-3, and Elias had an assist on Zach Parise's game-winner.

Blunden left the game with an undisclosed injury and did not take part in an optional skate Friday morning.

The Canadiens, who play afternoon home games Saturday and Sunday against Washington and Winnipeg, respectively, recalled forward Aaron Palushaj from AHL Hamilton.

(with files from CP)