Raffi Torres of the Phoenix Coyotes has been suspended 25 games by the NHL for his violent hit on Marian Hossa, according to reports. Torres' hit, one which was a total cheap shot that involved him leaving his feet to level the defenseless Hossa, was up for much scrutiny this past week and many felt the league needed to take a stand on these big hits in the playoffs.
Needless to say, the NHL sent a pretty strong message with the suspension.
Torres has a history of dirty play, already being suspended earlier in the year by the Coyotes for a similar offense. He was also criticized for what many considered dirty play in last year's playoffs while playing with the Canucks.
The suspension will keep him out of the 2012 playoffs regardless of how far Phoenix goes, and any games left on his suspension will be served at the start of play next fall.
According to Darren Rovell of CNBC, the hit will cost Coyotes' left wing $533,400 in salary.
Torres and the team are yet to release any kind of statement. Phoenix currently leads the Blackhawks 3-1 in the series.
For more on the Coyotes, head on over to Five For Howling.