FRISCO -- Stars forward Steve Ott didn't want to comment on his two-game suspension for a hip check on Blues defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo on Saturday.
The NHL's official release called it a "low hit" and noted that Ott was a repeat offender in terms of suspensions. He forfeits $35,585.36 of salary.
When asked if Ott will change his game at all, he was quick to respond.
"Not one bit," Ott said. "The only thing I can do is continue to throw textbook hits and that's it."
Ott was not assessed a penalty on the play, but the league reviewed it and determined he should miss the next two games. Ott will sit out Wednesday against Toronto and Friday against Florida. Ott is eligible to return for Saturday's game at Nashville.
Stars coach Marc Crawford said the club will move forward without Ott the next two games, but doesn't think Ott should alter his game based on his suspension history with the league.
"Probably because of his reputation, he doesn't get enough credit for being a very good player," Crawford said. "He needs to be an antagonizing guy for him to feel comfortable. It's a big part of who he is."
Other notes:
Jere Lehtinen (intercostal muscle) skated before practice. He is expected to participate in the morning skate on Wednesday, which is in Frisco, but will not play in the game.
Mike Modano (cracked ribs) participated in all of practice and Crawford was pleased with how he looked on the power play. But there's still no timetable for Modano's return.
Matt Niskanen (head injury) is probable for Wednesday's game.
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Richard Durrett
Richard Durrett joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009. He writes about colleges, the Dallas Stars and the Texas Rangers. Richard spent nine years at The Dallas Morning News covering the Rangers, Stars, colleges, motorsports and high schools.
