After receiving a match penalty at the end of the Boston Bruins’ 4-3 victory in Game 3, Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom earned a one-game suspension from NHL disciplinarian Brendan Shanahan for his cross-check on Rich Peverley at the 20-minute mark of the third period. Here’s Shanahan’s explanation on the details via NHL.com…

Despite missing nearly half the season due to a concussion, Backstrom still put in solid numbers when healthy compiling 44 points (14 goals, 30 assists) in 42 games. In three games this postseason, the Swedish forward has a goal and an assist, including a double overtime winner in Game 2.

Backstrom’s loss presents the Bruins with a huge opportunity to put a stranglehold on the Caps as they look to take a three games to one series lead in their first round series. The Black and Gold practices today in Arlington, Va. at 1 p.m. in preparation for Game 4 Thursday night at the Verizon Center.