NHL suspends Maple Leafs’ Polak

WASHINGTON — The NHL suspended Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Roman Polak two games for his injurious hit on Blue Jackets winger Oliver Bjorkstrand in Wednesday’s game at Nationwide Arena.

Bloodied by the third-period check from behind into the boards, Bjorkstrand did not accompany the Blue Jackets to Washington and missed Thursday’s game against the Washington Capitals.

Neither alternate captain Brandon Dubinsky nor coach John Tortorella would address the league’s decision.

“It’s not my team,” Tortorella said when asked the ruling.

The coach offered no update on Bjorkstrand’s health. The rookie had blood coming from either his mouth or nose and did not return to the game.

Polak was assessed a five-minute boarding penalty on the play, but the Blue Jackets — down a goal at the time — were unable to convert on the power play in a 5-2 loss. As part of the suspension, he will forfeit $25,000 based on his average annual salary, according to the league.

The hit was one of several from behind by the Maple Leafs in the game.

“They are just dangerous,” Foligno said. “That’s the part you get frustrated with because a lot of times those are called ... Luckily, (Dubinsky) doesn’t get hurt, luckily (Seth Jones) doesn’t get hurt. Then, Bjorkie does. You keep letting it go and letting it go and then all of a sudden someone gets hurt.

“I don’t blame the officials. They’re trying to let things go and let us play, but those are the ones you hate to see because they can hurt someone and unfortunately Bjorkie didn’t come back (in the game).”

Bjorkstrand has made a significant impact for the Blue Jackets since being recalled from the minors Feb. 14. He’s registered six goals and five assists in 17 games.

Hartnell in lineup

Scott Hartnell returned to the lineup after sitting out Wednesday’s game. The Blue Jackets scratched defenseman Scott Harrington and forward Lauri Korpikoski.