Sharks’ Hertl suspended two games for high-sticking Flames’ Lindholm

San Jose Sharks centre Tomas Hertl has been suspended two games for high-sticking Calgary Flames centre Elias Lindholm, the NHL’s department of player safety announced after a hearing with the player Monday.

The incident occurred six seconds into the third period of the Sharks’ 5-2 loss on Sunday, when Hertl retaliated after receiving cross-checks from Lindholm by swinging his stick and catching the Flames forward in the neck area.

Hertl received a two-minute minor penalty for his actions. The Czech forward had never been suspended before.

The 29-year-old has 11 goals and 21 assists in 33 games with the Sharks this season, his 10th in San Jose.