Blue Jackets' Foligno suspended 3 games for hit on Avalanche's Bellemare

Columbus Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno has been suspended three games for his high hit on Colorado Avalanche forward Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced on Monday.

"As Bellemare dumps the puck, Foligno continues toward him and attempts to make contact, extending his elbow and making direct contact with Bellemare's jaw," the Department of Player Safety said. "This is elbowing."

Foligno was handed a major penalty and a game misconduct on the play. He has no suspension history, which is factored into the length of a punishment.

Bellemare was diagnosed with a concussion after the hit, though head coach Jared Bednar said the winger is feeling better and will make Colorado's road trip across western Canada this week.