MONTREAL — Canadiens forward Ryan White has been suspended for five games by the NHL for a check to the head of Flyers defenseman Kent Huskins. White could be available for the final game of the regular season on April 27 but that seems unlikely at this point.  White works hard, has passion for the game, is an excellent teammate but lacks the skill and judgement to remain an effective player in the Canadiens lineup. White will become a restricted free agent on July 1st.

From the NHL’s Department of Player Safety:

Montreal Canadiens forward Ryan White has been suspended for five games, without pay, for an illegal check to the head of Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Kent Huskins during NHL Game No. 626 in Montreal on Monday, April 15, the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety announced today.

Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and based on his average annual salary, White will forfeit $18,581.10. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

The incident occurred at 6:11 of the first period. White was assessed a match penalty for illegal check to the head.