Drouin suspended one game, out for Islanders home opener

New York Islanders winger Jonathan Drouin was suspended one game Friday by the NHL Department of Player Safety for crosschecking Pittsburgh Penguins forward Connor Dewar in the head late in Thursday's game at PPG Paints Arena. The 30-year-old was assessed a five-minute major and game misconduct on the play, which came in a post-whistle scrum with 15 seconds remaining, and will miss the Islanders' home opener Saturday against the Washington Capitals.

The Department of Player Safety said there was no hockey purpose for the blow. Drouin was ejected on the play after Dewar went to the ice. Drouin said the contact was unintentional; the department noted that players are responsible for their sticks at all times. He will forfeit $20,833 in salary, with the money directed to the Players Emergency Assistance Fund. The suspension marks the first of Drouin's 12-year NHL career. He is eligible to return Monday when the Islanders host the Winnipeg Jets.

Drouin had a prominent role in Thursday's loss before the disciplinary action. In his first game after signing a two-year contract with New York, he scored the Islanders' first goal of the season but was penalized and removed following the...