Dennis Wideman’s suspension reduced to 10 games
Calgary Flames defenseman Dennis Wideman’s 20-game suspension for blindsiding a linesman was reduced to 10 games by an independent arbitrator Friday, the league announced on Friday.
Wideman will now be reinstated and is eligible to play.
The news comes less than a month after Wideman’s original 20-game suspension was upheld on appeal by commissioner Gary Bettman.
Dennis Wideman suspension appeal loser for all sides
In a statement released Friday, NHL officials said they “strenuously disagree with the Arbitrator’s ruling and are reviewing the Opinion in detail to determine what next steps may be appropriate.”
Wideman was given the 20-game suspension after cross-checking linesman Don Henderson during a Jan. 27 game against Nashville. Henderson was diagnosed with a concussion following the game.
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The 32-year-old is in his fourth season with the Flames. He has two goals and 17 assists in 48 games this season.