Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We just received an interesting announcement from the National Hockey League involving Niko Mikkola.

The Florida Panthers defenseman, who indeed made a reckless move against the Montreal Canadiens late in yesterday’s game has been punished for it by the NHL Player Safety.

He has just received the maximum fine allowed under the NHL’s collective bargaining agreement.

Niko Mikkola punished by the NHL for his move against the Montreal Canadiens yesterday afternoon

See the official statement below:

“Niko Mikkola of Florida has been fined $5,000, the maximum allowable under the collective bargaining agreement, for unsportsmanlike conduct during last night’s game against Montreal.”

– NHL Department of Player Safety

Unless I’m mistaken, I don’t believe the NHL can suspend a player for this kind of offense, so this still sends a good message, especially since the Canadiens could send one of their own as early as tomorrow night with Arber Xhekaj.

It promises to be intense, especially if Xhekaj is in the lineup.

“Niko Mikkola fined after attempting to hit David Savard with a slap shot at the end of yesterday’s game.”

-Renaud Lavoie

The Canadiens are looking to sweep the season series against the defending Stanley Cup champs tomorrow, when they visit the Bell Centre for what should be an intense game.

More details to come.