AHL suspends Purinton for 25 games

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. … The American Hockey League today announced that Lake Erie Monsters defenseman Dale Purinton has been suspended for twenty-five (25) games as a result of delivering a hit to the head of Iowa Stars forward Marius Holtet during an AHL game on Oct. 17.

Purinton was assessed a match penalty at 20:00 of the second period under AHL Rule 47.14 for punching an unsuspecting opponent and causing injury.

“An incident such as this has no place in our game,” said AHL President and CEO David Andrews. “Mr. Purinton struck Marius Holtet in the head from behind with a gloved fist after the completion of play. This was a dangerous and deliberate action, by a player who is a repeat offender.”

Purinton will miss Lake Erie’s next 25 regular-season games. He will be eligible to return on Dec. 29.