NCHC hands down one-game ban to Minnesota-Duluth’s Kotyk for illegal hit

The NCHC on Monday issued a one-game suspension to Minnesota-Duluth junior defenseman Brenden Kotyk.

The suspension stems from an illegal hit during UMD’s game against Colorado College on Feb. 6.

Kotyk was suspended after a review of a play in which his stick was used to deliver a hit to the head of a Colorado College player, who was not in possession of the puck, at 2:24 of the third period Saturday at Amsoil Arena in Duluth. A minor penalty for elbowing was issued on the play.

Kotyk will be required to serve the suspension during UMD’s next game on Feb. 9 against Bemidji State. He is eligible to return for the Bulldogs’ next NCHC series against North Dakota Feb. 19-20.