Probert Suspended for Game 4

Detroit’s Bob Probert has been suspended for Game 4 of the Red Wings’ NHL playoff series with St. Louis for sucker-punching goalie Vincent Riendeau of the Blues in Game 2.

The suspension was handed down Tuesday by Brian O’Neill, the league’s executive vice president, who arrived in Detroit before Game 3 on Monday and met with St. Louis General Manager Ron Caron. After the game, O’Neill met with Probert and Detroit Coach Bryan Murray.

The Red Wings, with Probert drawing four minor penalties, won that game, 5-2, and took a 2-1 lead in the Norris Division series. The fourth game is tonight at Joe Louis Arena.

On the play, St. Louis defenseman Garth Butcher reached from behind and punched Probert. Probert responded by slashing Butcher across the chest.

As referee Bill McCreary skated onto the scene, Riendeau began pointing at Probert, telling McCreary of the slashing infraction. Probert then punched the goalie on the mask.