Alex Ovechkin Suspended Three Games

Alexander Ovechkin has been suspended three games for leaving his feet to hit Pittsburgh defenseman Zbynek Michalek in Sunday's matinee game.

The incident, which occurred at the 4.03 mark of the second period in Pittsburgh 4-3 overtime victory, consists of Ovechkin racing after Michalek along the boards, "launching" himself at his opponent, and "making contact with his head."

Brendan Shanahan, the Vice President of the Department of Player Safety who doled out the suspension, claims that the hit delivered by the Capitals captain is "a violation of the charging rule." (Rule 42) that Ovechkin has previously been suspended twice in his NHL career.

Zbynek Michalek was not injured on the play, and in fact had his own hearing earlier today after he elbowed Caps forward Matt Hendricks just 4:33 later. Michalek was not suspended for his (let's face it) dirtier hit.