Gauthier "disappointed" to be missing next two games

Julien Gauthier released a statement shortly after the QMJHL announced his two-game suspension.

Here's what Gauthier had to say, via the Sea Dogs website:

“I am disappointed I will not be able to play the next two games,” Gauthier began. “I will be working hard this week, and doing everything I can to be ready for my next opportunity to be back in the lineup.”

Gauthier was given a two-game ban for his check to the head on Blainville-Boisbriand Armada's Joel Teasdale in the third period of Saturday's Game 2. The Carolina Hurricanes prospect will miss Games 3 and 4 of the President Cup Final in Boisbriand.

The Sea Dogs' release said no further comments would be made on the suspension, although the team will have media availability tomorrow morning.

The good news for Gauthier is that he will be playing again this season at some point. With the Dogs up 2-0 in the series, the forward will either return for Game 5 or the team's first Memorial Cup game.

Gauthier has plenty of playoff experience but is having the best post-season of his QMJHL career this year, recording 11 goals and six assists in 16 games. The 19-year-old has been scoring at big moments - he has four goals in this President Cup Final - which is something he struggled with in 2015 when he did not score in the Val-d'Or Foreurs' final six playoff games en route to a third round elimination.

The Armada also requested a revision of a play involving Nathan Noel. No suspension came from the play, meaning the Armada received a $250 fine.

Game 3 of this year's President Cup Final takes place Tuesday night in Boisbriand.