Bourque Suspended, Stajan hurt, Byron recalled

 

(pic courtesy Montreal Hockey talk)

 

Some quick hits today as news has been popping up on twitter this afternoon.

Firstly, Rene Bourque has been suspended for two games after his hit from behind on Seabrook. The obligatory Shanaban video:

Im ambivalent on the sentence. I don’t think there was malice in the hit since it looked like Seabrook’s last minute turn towards the boards was the main issue. Not blaming the victim here, because Seabrook doesn’t have eyes in the back of his head either. Just one of those plays that goes badly due to circumstances. That said, Bourque bears the ultimate responsibility as the hitter in the situation, so I’m not going to protest too loudly in his favor.

Secondly, Stajan has been placed on IR by the Flames due to a leg injury suffered against the Hawks. Matt has played relatively well on the Flames 4th line recently, which is damning with faint praise, I know. At least he hasn’t been a detriment I guess. Roman Horak will likely find his way back into the line-up as a result.

Finally, Calgary has also recalled Paul Byron owing to the absence of Bourque and Stajan. In 18 games for the Heat this year, Byron has just four goals and seven points. That said, he looked a bit more comfortable in the big league than Nemisz in his recent cup of coffee, so he probably deserves another look.