Boston Bruins forward David Backes has been suspended three games for his check to the head of New Jersey Devils forward Blake Coleman during Thursday's game, the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced.

Here's the hit that earned Backes the ban:

The collision occurred during the third period of the Devils' 5-2 road win.

Backes - considered a repeat offender by the league - also received a minor penalty on the play for an illegal check to the head. He will miss the 2019 Winter Classic between the Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks at Notre Dame Stadium on New Year's Day.

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