Tortorella suspended following Canucks vs Flames game

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The National Hockey League issued a 15-day suspension to Vancouver Canucks coach John Tortorella on Monday stemming from the game against the Calgary Flames on January 18th, 2014. Tortorella cannot have contact with the team until the suspension, which is is retroactive from Sunday, January 19th, 2014 and concludes on Sunday, February 2nd, 2014.

Following a series of on-ice brawls in the opening seconds of the first period, Tortorella appeared in the hall outside of the Calgary Flames dressing room during the first intermission to voice his displeasure with Calgary coach Bob Hartley. The Vancouver coach had to be restrained by Calgary staff in what was a tense few minutes before the remaining players were able to enter their dressing room.

Tortorella was summoned to the NHL head office in New York City where he faced a disciplinary hearing with NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell. During this suspension, the Vancouver coach will miss six games.

Hartley was also issued a $25,000 USD fine for his part in starting Kevin Westgarth who, according to Campbell, “attempted to instigate a premeditated fight” with the Vancouver’s Kevin Bieksa.

The Vancouver Canucks released a short statement on Monday respecting the league’s decision and the team’s support for Tortorella.

Tortorella has developed a reputation with his fiery temper and harsh opinions during media scrums.

Sources: NHL [1, 2]

 

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