Arizona Coyotes’ Josh Archibald suspended for two games
By James Reeve
The Arizona Coyotes will be without forward Josh Archibald after he was suspended for two games without pay by the NHL.
The suspension comes as a result of an illegal check to Ryan Hartman’s head in the team’s recent 2-1 victory over the Nashville Predators.
The check originally saw Archibald receive a minor penalty during the game and will now see him lose $7,258 for the two games he will miss.
The 26-year-old Regina, Saskatchewan native has iced for nine games with the Arizona Coyotes this season, registering no points so far.
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Averaging 11:33 when given the opportunity with the NHL club, Archibald has 14 hits, blocked five shots and two takeaways.
Archibald is used heavily in defensive situations, starting in his own zone 57.6% of the time, registering a Corsi rating of just 41.4%.
The Coyotes have seen a number of their players miss time this season, with Archibald just one of many.
Rick Tocchet’s team have been one of the best defensively in the entire NHL this season, with Archibald playing a small part in that success.
Losing him for two games is a disappointment for the organisation, but it could have been a lot worse.
Losing the likes of Michael Grabner or Derek Stepan for two or more games would have a far bigger impact on the team and it is a relief that it is Archibald.
The former Pittsburgh Penguin will return to the line-up next Saturday, when the Coyotes face the Colorado Avalanche.
He will miss games against the Boston Bruins and local rivals the Vegas Golden Knights, both coming during a five-game home stretch for the Arizona Coyotes.
Next. Tough road trip continues for the Coyotes. dark
What do you think of this suspension Coyotes fans? Do you agree with the length? Are you disappointed to lose Archibald against the likes of Boston and Vegas? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!