Columbus Blue Jackets defenceman Jack Johnson has been suspended three games for an illegal hit to the head on Carolina Hurricanes left winger Jiri Tlusty on Tuesday night.

In the third period of the Hurricanes' 4-2 win over the Blue Jackets, Johnson delivered a check to the head of Tlusty as he skated with the puck through the neutral zone. Tlusty went to the dressing room while Johnson was assessed a two-minute minor for the hit.

After the game, Hurricanes coach said that Tlusty felt fine, but would still have to undergo regular concussion testing protocol.

This is the first career suspension for the 27-year-old Johnson.