"Blackhawks defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson could be in line for a suspension following a hit on the Sabres' Jason Pominville during Monday night's game.

Late in the first period of the Hawks' 4-3 victory, Hjalmarsson drilled Pominville into the boards, causing the Buffalo winger to suffer a concussion. Pominville was taken off the ice on a stretcher and Hjalmarsson was assessed a five-minute major boarding penalty and game misconduct, resulting in his ejection.

"Everything happened so fast, but I thought it was a hit shoulder-to-shoulder," Hjalmarsson said. "My intention wasn't to hurt him."

Pominville didn't return to the game but remained at the arena after being taken off. He reportedly didn't go to the hospital.

"The decision is in the league's hands now," Hjalmarsson said. "It's good to know he's all right. Hopefully he gets back as soon as possible. It's never fun to see a guy laying on the ice like that, especially when you did something."

Stepping in: Backup goaltender Corey Crawford got his first start of the season after Marty Turco was in net for the Hawks' first two games. Crawford, who made 32 saves to earn the victory, said he's adjusting to life in the NHL after spending the last five seasons in the American Hockey League."