(New York) Carolina Hurricanes forward Nino Niederreiter was fined US $ 5,000 for obstructing Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros.

The fine he received is the largest allowed by the collective agreement.

Niederreiter hit Saros in a collision behind the net after five minutes of play in the club's meeting on Tuesday. He was punished two minutes for harshness on the game.

Saros remained in the net for the remainder of the first period, but was replaced by Pekka Rinne early in the second. The Preds have indicated that Saros' condition will be reassessed on Wednesday, without indicating the reason for his withdrawal.

The goalie allowed two goals after the collision and the Predators lost 4-2.