NEW YORK, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- The New York Rangers will be shorthanded on the blue line for the next two weeks as defensemen Dale Purinton and Igor Ulanov each were suspended seven games without pay by the NHL Friday.
Purinton and Ulanov both were banned for separate cross-checking incidents in Tuesday's 5-2 loss to Washington. They will be eligible to return Oct. 27 against Boston.
Purinton delivered a cross-check to the head area of Capitals forward Stephen Peat at 3:39 of the first period. He was given an instigating minor, a fighting major and a misconduct.
Ulanov cross-checked Capitals left wing Steve Konowalchuk in the head area with 6:47 to play. He was assessed a major and a game misconduct.
The suspensions were announced by NHL executive vice president and director of hockey operations Colin Campbell, who is coming down hard on players who appear to be head-hunting.
"The actions of both Mr. Purinton and Mr. Ulanov were deliberate and it is fortunate that neither Washington player was seriously injured in those incidents," Campbell said. "Prior to the start of the season, all clubs were advised that there would be a stricter enforcement regarding illegal hits to the head."
Purinton and Ulanov are considered repeat offenders, having been subjected to supplementary discipline in the last 18 months. The suspensions will cost Purinton $34,146 and Ulanov $170,731.
The defensemen will miss games against Ottawa, Montreal, New Jersey, Atlanta, Tampa Bay, San Jose and St. Louis.
