Erik Johnson suspended two games for boarding Namestnikov

Colorado Avalanche's Erik Johnson slashes Vladislav Namestnikov to draw the initial penalty, then cross-checks him from behind into the boards at full speed.

NEW YORK — Colorado Avalanche defenceman Erik Johnson was suspended for two games without pay by the NHL on Sunday for boarding Tampa Bay Lightning forward Vladislav Namestnikov.

Johnson was assessed a minor penalty for slashing and a major penalty and game misconduct for boarding in the second period of Colorado’s 6-5 home loss Saturday night.

The suspension will cost Johnson $64,516.

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