BC-HKN–Hatcher Suspended,0108

Red Wings D Hatcher suspended three games

TORONTO (AP) – Detroit Red Wings defenseman Derian Hatcher was suspended for next season’s first three games by the NHL for elbowing an opponent in the head during the Western Conference semifinals.

Hatcher hit Calgary Flames forward Matthew Lombardi in the first period of Detroit’s 1-0 overtime loss in Game 6 last week. There was no penalty on the play, and Lombardi finished the game.

Because the Red Wings were eliminated from the playoffs in that game, Hatcher’s suspension will come at the start of the 2004-05 season.

AP-ES-05-11-04 1659EDT