Despite previous reports to the contrary, Toronto Maple Leafs forward David Clarkson will not appeal his suspension, according to Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston.
He’s being punished for violating Rule 70.10, which hands players an automatic 10-game ban if they leave their bench illegally during a fight or to start an altercation.
The 29-year-old do just that on Sunday after Buffalo Sabres forward John Scott’s attempt to fight Phil Kessel led to a line brawl, as you can see below:
“I sometimes make decisions with my heart, not my head,” Clarkson said.
As a result, the Maple Leafs will be without their big free agent signing until Oct. 25. That also puts the Maple Leafs in an even rougher salary cap situation.
Clarkson apologized at least three times for not talking to the media since the incident.
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) September 25, 2013