NEW YORK, - The NHL suspended Boston Bruins forward Zac Rinaldo for five games Tuesday for delivering an illegal check.

Rinaldo was suspended without pay for hitting Tampa Bay Lightning forward Cedric Paquette in the head during a 4-1 Boston win Sunday night.

Rinaldo received a minor penalty on the play.

The NHL said Rinaldo is considered a repeat offender and will forfeit US$51,829.25 in salary.