IN BRIEF : Flames’ Mark Hunter Suspended for 3 Games for Hitting Opponent

MONTREAL — Calgary Flames right wing Mark Hunter was suspended for three games without pay today for hitting New York Rangers defense man Michel Petit with his stick in a game March 13, the NHL announced.

League Executive Vice President Brian O’Neill said Hunter “deliberately swung his stick at the back of his opponent and with sufficient force to cause him to fall to the ice.

“Even though the blow did not result in serious injury, the player must be responsible for his actions.”

The suspension would take effect March 28 but can begin immediately if the Flames agree to waive the seven-day period in which an appeal may be filed.

Hunter, 26, has 22 goals and eight assists in 62 games with Calgary this season.