Roman Polak gets 2 games for boarding Oliver Bjorkstrand

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Roman Polak has been suspended two games for boarding Blue Jackets forward Oliver Bjorkstrand during Wednesday's game in Columbus.

(Video courtesy: NHL.com)

As the video shows, Polak finished a check on Bjorkstrand with force, driving through Bjorkstrand's back to send him violently into the boards.

Polak also tracked Bjorkstrand from behind prior to the hit, and the forward was not eligible to be checked on the play. The onus was therefore on the defenseman to minimize impact or avoid the check altogether.

The veteran rearguard was assessed a major penalty and a game misconduct at the time of the incident but had not been previously fined or suspended. The fact that Bjorkstrand was injured on the play also factored into the decision.

Polak will forfeit $25,000 in salary.