Kings' Gilbert suspended 3 games for boarding Ducks' Ritchie

Los Angeles Kings defenseman Tom Gilbert has been suspended three games for boarding Anaheim Ducks forward Nick Ritchie, the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced Thursday.

As the video explains, Gilbert drove Ritchie into the boards, causing injury. The defenseman was deemed to have approached Ritchie from behind, using necessary force in delivering contact.

Gilbert's only other brush with NHL discipline was a $2,500 fine back in 2010. Based on his average annual salary, Gilbert will forfeit $23,333.34 due to this suspension.

Ritchie was unable to suit up for Anaheim's game against Pittsburgh on Wednesday, and it's uncertain when he'll return from injury.

(Video courtesy: NHL.com)