The CHL's Sports Board has ruled to suspend Lian Bichsel of Leksands IF for one game over an incident that took place in Friday’s Game Day 1 clash with Slovan Bratislava.

In the game, Bichsel was adjudged to have made an illegal play at 37:50. The play falls under IIHF Rule 48 (Checking to the head or neck) and was deemed to be worthy of supplementary discipline.

The play saw Slovan create an odd man rush after breaking out of their own zone, with Bichsel being the lone defenceman for Leksands IF.

As the video below shows, Bichsel attempts to challenge the Slovan puck carrier, Tomáš Matoušek, who then makes a pass to his teammate, Brant Harris.

The play occurs at high speed, meaning that the time for Bichsel to make a play happens very quickly. Additionally, Harris does not catch the puck cleanly, reducing his ability to protect himself, leaving some of the responsibility for the check on Harris.

Despite this, the play is deemed worthy of supplementary discipline, as the check that Bichsel delivered is considered illegal. With no regard for the puck, and Bichsel’s primary focus to make a body check, he must avoid making contact with the head.

As a result, the CHL Sports Board ruled to suspend Lian Bichsel for one game and issue a fine of €700, effective immediately.