Leafs' Hyman suspended 2 games for late hit on Bruins' McAvoy

Toronto Maple Leafs winger Zach Hyman has been suspended two games for his late hit on Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy during Saturday's contest, the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced.

The play occurred late in the third period of the Bruins' 6-3 victory. It quickly prompted a fight at center ice as Boston blueliner Matt Grzelcyk stepped up in defense of his teammate, who was playing just his second game since returning from a concussion.

The department declared the decision for a two-game ban stemmed from "the force of the hit and the predatory nature of the hit itself." It's the first suspension of Hyman's career.

The 26-year-old Hyman has recorded 15 points in 30 games this season and is eligible to return Dec. 15 against the Florida Panthers.