NHL suspends Sharks forward 41 games for a brutal check

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Raffi Torres Sharks

Christian Petersen/Getty

San Jose Sharks forward Raffi Torres has been suspended 41 games - or half the 2015-2016 NHL season - for his illegal check to the head of Anaheim Ducks winger Jakob Silfverberg during a preseason game last week.

The NHL announced  the suspension Monday afternoon.

Here's the play in question:

Torres' check is a nasty one - late, away from the play, and targeted at Silfverberg's head. Torres received a match penalty for it, meaning he was ejected and was automatically suspended until NHL Player Safety ruled officially. 

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The 41-game suspension is a big one, but for a hit that could have easily ended a young player's career, it's deserving, And, Torres' suspension will also undoubtedly send a strong message to players around the league on the eve of the new season.