New York, NY (Sports Network) - Chicago Blackhawks forward Ben Eager was suspended three games without pay by the NHL on Wednesday.
Eager's penalty stemmed from his actions in last Thursday's preseason game against the Dallas Stars. The 24-year-old was given a match penalty for attempting to injure Stars forward Sean Avery by swinging his stick from the bench at Avery, who was on the ice.
Eager is slated to miss the Blackhawks' first three regular-season games, October 10 at the New York Rangers, October 11 at Washington and October 13 against Nashville. He will be eligible to return for Chicago's contest with the Phoenix Coyotes on October 15.
The feisty winger split last season between Philadelphia and Chicago, picking up two assists and 89 penalty minutes in 32 games.
