Gerber gets three-game suspension for abusing referee

TORONTO -- Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Martin Gerber received an automatic three-game suspension from the NHL on Wednesday for abusing referee Mike Leggo.

Gerber was tossed with 56 seconds remaining in Tuesday's 3-2 shootout win over the Washington Capitals after he pushed Leggo and shot a puck in his direction.

The actions violated rule 41.4, which calls for an automatic suspension.

Gerber was upset after Brooks Laich's goal made it 2-2. The Capitals forward stuffed the puck under Gerber, prompting the Toronto goalie to protest.

Gerber will miss Friday's game at Buffalo, March 28 against Boston and April 1 against Philadelphia. He's eligible to return April 3 when the Leafs visit the Flyers.