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League cracks down on cross-checks to head

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Associated Press


NEW YORK -- New York Rangers defensemen Dale Purinton and Igor Ulanov were suspended Friday by the NHL for seven games each for cross-checking infractions against the Washington Capitals.


Purinton delivered a stick-first check to the head of Washington's Steve Peat during the first period of Capitals' 5-2 victory Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden. Purinton received an instigator penalty as well as major for fighting and a misconduct.


Ulanov cross-checked Steve Konowalchuk in the head in the third period, and received a major and a game misconduct.


The actions of both players were called deliberate by Colin Campbell, the league's director of hockey operations.


"It is fortunate that neither Washington player was seriously injured in these incidents," Campbell said. "Prior to the start of the season, all clubs were advised that there would be a stricter enforcement regarding illegal hits to the head."


Ulanov will lose more than $170,000 in pay, and Purinton more than $34,000. The money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.


Both will begin their suspensions Saturday, when the Rangers play in Ottawa. They will be off the ice until after New York's game Oct. 27 in Boston.

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