Report: Raffi Torres’ Remaining Suspension to Be Reduced by Four Games

Raffi Torres was slapped with a harsh suspension for his head shot on Marian Hossa during the Coyotes-Blackhawks postseason series. Perhaps too harsh — at least in commissioner Gary Bettman's mind.

Bettman has decided to reduce Torres' remaining suspension by four games, according to TSN. That puts Torres' remaining suspension at eight games rather than the expected 12.

Torres was suspended 25 games in April for launching himself at Hossa during Game 3 of the teams' playoff series. The suspension went into effect immediately, forcing Torres to miss Phoenix' entire playoff run.

"This [hit] is a violation of three NHL rules –- interference, charging and illegal check to the head," league disciplinarian Brendan Shanahan said at the time the suspension was handed down.

The Coyotes went on to enjoy a deep playoff run without Torres, advancing to the Western Conference Final, where they fell to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Kings.