Bobby Ryan of Anaheim Ducks Suspended Two Games for Stomping Incident

The NHL suspended high-powered forward Bobby Ryan two games on Saturday afternoon for an incident that occurred late in the Anaheim Ducks' 5-3 win over Nashville in Game 2 on Friday night.

The play in question saw Ryan pinning Nashville defenseman Jonathon Blum against the boards in Anaheim's defensive zone behind the net.

When the puck became immovable between Blum's skate and the boards, Ryan appeared to purposely stomp down onto the boot of Blum, which loosened the puck and kept play alive.

The play did not earn a penalty at the time.

Ryan had two goals in the game, including an empty-net goal to seal the Ducks' win and even the series at 1-1.

Ryan scored 71 points while playing in all 82 games. He is a key piece for the Ducks, who rely heavily on the "RPG" line of Ryan, Corey Perry, and Ryan Getzlaf. 

Anaheim, the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, face a difficult challenge beginning in Sunday's Game 3 in Nashville. The Predators dominated Game 1 and won 4-1, and nearly erased a 4-1 deficit in Game 2 before their fate was sealed with Ryan's empty-netter.

The Predators were 24-9-8 at home this season, and their nine regulation losses at home were tied for second fewest in the league.

Games 3 and 4 will be in Nashville, as well as Game 6 if necessary.

The first game Ryan will be available is Game 5 on Friday night in Anaheim.