Capitals’ Marcus Johansson suspended two games for head shot

Watch as Marcus Johansson lays a vicious hit to Thomas Hickey, landing a flying elbow on the Islanders defenceman.

Washington Capitals forward Marcus Johansson has been suspended two games for an illegal check to the head of New York Islanders defenceman Thomas Hickey that occurred Thursday.

The NHL’s Department of Player Safety announced the suspension Friday.

Johansson was assessed a minor penalty on the play and Hickey returned to the game after leaving the ice briefly. In addition to the two games, Johansson forfeits $40,322.58 in salary.

The 25-year-old Swede is in the midst of his best season as a pro. He has 11 points in his last 10 games and was on pace for a career high in both goals and points.

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