Kings' Gauthier suspended five games for hitting player in head

LOS ANGELES -- Los Angeles Kings defenseman Denis Gauthier has been suspended five games without pay for hitting another player in the head during a game against the Montreal Canadiens.

Gauthier was given a game misconduct after he was assessed a major for charging Friday.

During the second period, he left his feet while driving his right forearm into Josh Gorges' head as he checked the Canadiens defenseman along the left boards.

NHL officials said Monday that Gauthier will also have to forfeit more than $56,000, which is based on his average annual salary, to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

Gauthier will be able to return Feb. 14 against Edmonton.