Simon Suspended Indefinitely By NHL For Stick Hit

Friday, March 9th 2007, 11:57 am

By: News On 6

UNIONDALE, N.Y. (AP) -- New York Islanders forward Chris Simon was suspended indefinitely by the NHL on Friday for his stick-swinging hit to the face of Rangers center Ryan Hollweg.

Simon was given a match penalty for deliberate attempt to injure late in Thursday night's 2-1 loss to the Rangers. The length of the suspension won't be determined until after a disciplinary hearing. That hasn't been scheduled but is expected to take place next week, likely in Toronto.

Simon was ejected with just more than 6 minutes left, and the ensuing power play led to the decisive goal in the Rangers' victory.

Just seconds before he was hit, Hollweg drove Simon into the boards with a hard, clean check. Simon got up angrily and met Hollweg as they came together again. He then swung his stick into Hollweg's face, just above his neck.

Hollweg's chin was bloodied, but he was not seriously injured and expects to play Saturday when the Rangers visit Pittsburgh.