Ducks’ Perry suspended four games for hit on Wild’s Zucker

Anaheim, CA, United States (4E Sports) – Corey Perry was suspended four games by the NHL for his hit on Minnesota Wild winger Jason Zucker in Anaheim Ducks’ 2-1 win Tuesday.

The incident occurred as Minnesota led 1-0. A video reveals that Perry was not only a full second late in making contact with Zucker after he had cleared the puck, but he also made clear contact with the forward’s head.

Rob Blake of the NHL’s Department of Player Safety notes that Perry definitely had time to pull out of the hit or at least make less significant impact. However, he decided to follow through with his hit.

The Anaheim Ducks’ star winger and former Hart Trophy winner was given a five-minute major penalty for interference and a game misconduct.

“It’s unfortunate. I don’t go out there looking to hurt guys. That’s not the way I am. That’s not me as a person,” said Perry in downplaying the incident. “Obviously you don’t want to miss games and be suspended or whatever. I want to help this team win. That’s my goal…”

Perry, who will forfeit $115,135.12 in salary, also was suspended four games in January 2009 for an elbow to the head of Philadelphia Flyers star Claude Giroux.

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