Canadiens’ Brendan Gallagher Facing Possible Suspension for Elbowing Islanders’ Adam Pelech

Montreal Canadiens‘ forward Brendan Gallagher is facing a possible suspension from the NHL after elbowing New York Islanders‘ defenseman Adam Pelech in the head during a game at Centre Bell.

Gallagher has been called to a telephone hearing by the Department of Player Safety, which means any suspension he receives cannot exceed five games.

The incident occurred with 8:08 remaining in the third period. Gallagher delivered a right elbow to Pelech’s head after the defenseman cleared the puck in the neutral zone. After a review by the officials, Gallagher was given a major penalty and ejected from the game.

Pelech left the ice to undergo medical evaluations following the hit.

Despite playing in the NHL for 12 seasons, Gallagher has never been suspended before.

The 31-year-old winger has recorded eight goals and eight assists in 48 games this season.

The Canadiens will resume their season on Saturday with a matchup against the Washington Capitals, after enjoying a week-long break.