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Flyers' Brandon Manning suspended two games for late hit on Penguins' Jake Guentzel

The NHL suspended Flyers defenseman Brandon Manning two games Monday for a late, open-ice hit Saturday on Penguins rookie Jake Guentzel.

Guentzel did not miss any time because of the high, second-period hit, and the forward contributed a pair of assists in the Penguins' 4-2 victory. He was named the game's No. 1 star.

Manning acknowledged the hit was late, but said he thought Guentzel was going to control the puck when he checked him. The puck bounced away from him and went toward Sidney Crosby.

Manning checked Guentzel in the shoulder and said his follow-through caught the forward in the head.

The league announced Manning had been suspended for interference. Manning will forfeit nearly $11,000 in salary.

"I'd like to say what I really think," Manning said, "but…"

There was no penalty called on the play.

Manning will miss home contests against Colorado (Tuesday) and Florida (Thursday).

"He's been a real good, solid piece for us," coach Dave Hakstol said. "He brings that physical edge; he's been reliable in every area and has been a staple for our lineup, so it's a hole that we'll have to fill over the next couple games here."

Michael Del Zotto will likely replace Manning.

Del Zotto is one of many Flyers who could be dealt before Wednesday's 3 p.m. trade deadline.

Breakaways

In the teams' last meeting, Brayden Schenn scored the deciding goal as the Flyers defeated host Colorado, 4-3, to extend their winning streak to 10 straight on Dec. 14. Colorado's Matt Duchene, currently one of the most sought-after players on the trade market, had two goals in that game…..Jordan Weal said it took him a few shifts Saturday to feel like himself, but he had no ill effects from a head injury when he returned to the lineup in Pittsburgh as the Flyers' top-line left winger. "As the game went on, I felt better and better," said Weal, who had three shots in the 4-2 loss to the Penguins….Travis Konecny, who hasn't played since Feb. 6 because of a leg injury, skated again Monday and there is an outside chance he returns to the lineup Saturday in Washington.....Steve Mason will make his first start in the last seven games Tuesday.