Breaking: The first suspension of the season is a big one. The NHL has already suspended a player.

The National Hockey League's Department of Player Safety has wasted no time laying down the law this season.

Head of player safety Stephan Quintal was in attendance when the Montreal Canadiens faced off against the Washinton Capitals in the preseason, and as a result he witnessed firsthand the hit delivered by newly acquired Canadiens forward Andrew Shaw.

The hit was obviously from behind, and it was also clearly designed to be retaliation for an incident that had occurred on the very same shift, providing motive for Shaw's intent and further damning him in the eyes of the NHL. As a result Shaw has been suspended for three preseason games.

As has become custom the league has released a video to break down it's decision and you can view it below.