Gary Bettman makes final decision on Nazem Kadri's suspension

Despite the appeal, Commissioner Gary Bettman chose today to uphold the ruling, meaning Kadri will be out another five games. This is unfortunate news for the Avs as the 30-year-old is a great two-way centerman, but for whatever reason he cannot seem to help himself when it comes to making questionable hits in the playoffs.

This suspension marked the third time in four years he has been suspended in the first round for an illegal hit.

Thankfully for Kadri, the Avalanche were not only able to sweep the Blues, but have also taken a 1-0 series lead versus the Vegas Golden Knights.

If they are able to win just one more game, it will ensure that he is back on the ice in this year's postseason. In 56 regular season games this year he scored 11 goals and had 21 helpers.

As seen on NHL.com