NHL hands down record suspension to Flyer

Maybe now Philadelphia will really get the message: The deliberate and dangerous hits that put two Flyers on the suspended list no longer have a spot in a safer NHL.

Philadelphia forward Jesse Boulerice was suspended 25 games by the NHL on Friday for striking Vancouver’s Ryan Kesler across the face with his stick, the longest single-season ban in league history.

The suspension was handed down by NHL disciplinarian Colin Campbell after a hearing in Toronto.

“This was more than a careless and reckless play,” Campbell said. “It was senseless.”

Boulerice said he was ready to serve his suspension. Boulerice is the second Flyer in two weeks to draw a long suspension – rookie Steve Downie was suspended 20 games for an intentional hit against Ottawa.

On the ice

Blackhawks 2, Red Wings 2: At Detroit, Robert Lang scored the tiebreaking goal in the third period against his former team, helping Chicago rally for the victory over Detroit.

Rangers 3, Capitals 1: At New York, Jaromir Jagr assisted on New York’s three power-play goals in the first period as the Rangers busted out with the man advantage and handed Washington its first loss of the season.

Blues 4, Avalanche 1: At St. Louis, Dan Hinote scored two goals in the third period, and goalie Manny Legace continued his mastery over Colorado as the Blues beat the Avalanche.

Flames 3, Stars 2 (OT): At Dallas, Matthew Lombardi scored twice, including the overtime winner, and Calgary rallied to beat the Stars for its first victory of the season.

Canucks 5, Oilers 2: At Edmonton, Alberta, Alex Burrows scored a short-handed goal in the second period and Vancouver got the victory over the Oilers.

Bruins 8, Kings 6: At Los Angeles, Phil Kessel scored three goals for his first career hat trick and Boston beat the Kings.