Panthers forward suspended due to linesman inaction, Panthers coach gets massive fine
The Department of Player Safety has suspended Florida Panthers forward Ryan Lomberg, one game for instigating a fight in the final five minutes of regulation. Head coach Andrew Brunette has also received a fine of $10,000.
With the score 7-4 Lomberg received an instigating penalty (a two-minute minor plus a five-minute major for fighting and 10-minute misconduct) for a fight with Tampa's Erik Cernak at 16:24. On the play a linesman attempted to break up the fight without proper support, leading to the interpretation that Lomberg was the aggressor. This triggered the Instigator and mandatory one-game suspension.
Lomberg was also given an additional game misconduct while teammates Jonathan Huberdeau and Mason Marchment were given 10-minute misconducts.
Steven Stamkos scored his 37th on the ensuing power play to make it 8-4.
In all, the two teams combined for 90 penalty minutes in the game. It will be an entertaining series if these two teams cross paths in the playoffs.
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