Isles’ Capuano incensed by Boyle’s hit on Hickey

12:26 AM ET

BROOKLYN, N.Y. — New York Islanders coach Jack Capuano was livid after his team’s 5-4 overtime loss to Tampa Bay in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference second-round series Tuesday night at Barclays Center, and says Lightning center Brian Boyle should be suspended.

Capuano believes Boyle, who scored the game-winning goal at 2:48 of OT, made a direct hit to the head of Islanders defenseman Thomas Hickey prior to the tally.

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Brian Boyle scored 2:48 into overtime to give the Lightning the Game 3 win and take a 2-1 series lead.

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“It’s a direct shot to the head,” Capuano said. “I mean, probably going to get suspended a game. That’s what I mean, the whole game, it shouldn’t come down to that. [Referee] is standing right there. I’ve watched it numerous times now. Those are the types of hits that we’re trying to eliminate from our game. It’s just too bad that it had to end that way.

“It’s frustrating because it’s right there. The play is right there. He’s looking right at it. The league can look at it if …

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