EDMONTON (CP) - News of Todd Bertuzzi's NHL ban for attacking Colorado rookie Steve Moore was slipped under the doors of the Avalanche hotel rooms in Edmonton on Thursday morning.
The Avs public relations staff took care of it, providing press releases on what had happened to the Vancouver Canucks star. Later, the team offered up its trio of leaders - captain Joe Sakic and assistant captains Rob Blake and Adam Foote - to offer reaction.
All three were careful in their comments, avoiding saying too much about the suspension. And all three said their thoughts were on Moore's recovery and the rest of the hockey season.
``It's pretty harsh,'' Sakic, speaking to reporters at the team's hotel, said of the ruling. ``We know Todd feels bad about it and the league did what they had to do.
``The most important thing for us is that Steve is doing better, and really that's it. ''
``The league did what it had to do with the decision and we respect that,'' Sakic added. ``Now for us, we just have to play.''
The Avs spent the night in Edmonton after a 3-2 overtime win over the Oilers, Colorado's first game since Bertuzzi attacked Moore on Monday night.
The team left Thursday for Phoenix.
Sakic also said he had no problem with the fact that Canucks coach Marc Crawford, a former Colorado coach, escaped punishment.
``The player did it. That's the bottom line. I mean Marc didn't do it.''
The league did fine Canucks $250,000 US.
In a statement, Colorado GM Pierre Lacroix said the league ``was careful to take into account all the elements and acted with a clear sense of what was fair for all parties involved.
``Steve Moore's complete recovery continues to be our main concern. At the same time, we will turn our energy and attention towards the remainder of our season and the upcoming playoffs.''
Colorado's next game in Friday in Phoenix.
``It's tough for everyone right now,'' said Foote. ``It's been very draining but the best thing for us is to get out on the ice.''