NHL suing Players' Association over Wideman's reduced suspension

The NHL still wants a piece of Dennis Wideman.

Almost three months after a third-party arbitrator reduced the Calgary Flames defenseman's suspension for cross-checking linesman Don Henderson from 20 games to 10 - and also long after Wideman returned to play - the NHL has filed a lawsuit against the NHLPA, wishing to vacate the ruling.

In its complaint the NHL writes that its ruling was supported by "substantial evidence," and that the third-party review - which it signed off on - is "limited" in its determining of supplemental discipline.

With Henderson having suffered significant injuries from the unsuspecting blow that have prevented his return to officiating, as per the complaint, the NHL's insistence is understandable. The timing, however, is not.

The lawsuit reintroduces a black mark on the season, and the NHL, on the eve of Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final, and a night in which the Pittsburgh Penguins can raise the Stanley Cup.

Wideman played in three games after serving his suspension before being sidelined for the remainder of the season with injury.