Wings' Fischer suspended for Game 5

The AssociatedPress

DETROIT -- Detroit Red Wings defenseman Jiri Fischer was suspended for Game 5 of the Stanley Cup finals for cross-checking Carolina Hurricanes forward Tommy Westlund in the mouth.

As the two tangled behind the net in third period of Game 4 Monday night, Fischer rammed his stick into Westlund's face. Westlund was bleeding heavily as he left the ice and needed five stitches inside his mouth.

No penalty was called on the play, apparently because referees Paul Devorski and Don Koharski were occupied elsewhere and did not see it. Carolina coach Paul Maurice said afterward he would send a tape of the incident to the league.

Earlier in the game, Fischer set up Igor Larionov's third goal in two games when he acted as if he might shoot, only to pass to Larionov, who beat goalie Arturs Irbe with a shot to the glove side.

The goal helped the Red Wings to a 3-0 victory and a 3-1 series lead. They can win the Stanley Cup in Game 5 on Thursday night in Detroit.