Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Michal Rozsival underwent surgery Tuesday for facial fractures sustained when he was punched by Anaheim Ducks forward Nick Ritchie last Thursday.
Ritchie received a two-game suspension without pay for the incident. He missed the Ducks' final regular-season game and will sit out the playoff opener against Calgary on Thursday.
Because Chicago has a deep defensive group this season, it was unlikely that Rozsival would have dressed in the playoffs unless injuries arose.
In the third period of the Ducks' 4-0 win, Rozsival cross-checked Anaheim forward Corey Perry. Rozsival was whistled for the penalty, but Ritchie skated up and punched him when his hands were at his side. Ritchie was given a match penalty at the time.
Blackhawks team physician Dr. Michael Terry said of Rozsival in a statement: "Surgery went well and he is expected to make a full recovery."
Rozsival, 38, signed a one-year extension with Chicago this season and will likely be exposed in the NHL expansion draft this offseason.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.