Suspension
DETROIT -- Detroit Red Wings defenseman Brendan Smith has been suspended for the remainder of the preseason and five regular season games by the NHL for his shoulder check to the head of Chicago Blackhawks forward Ben Smith in Wednesday's preseason game at the United Center.
Smith was not expected to make the team unless the Brad Stuart injury prevented him from staying in the lineup. The former 27th overall pick scored 12 goals and 32 points over 63 games for the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL. He probably is close to NHL ready as he remains the team's top prospect.
