An arbitrator has reduced Austin Watson's suspension to 18 games, the NHL and NHLPA announced Thursday.
The Nashville Predators forward was originally suspended for 27 games following a no-contest plea to domestic violence.
"Our organization was not involved in the appeal of Austin Watson’s 27-game suspension, but we are aware of its reduction to 18 games," the Predators said in a statement. "As previously stated, our focus has and will continue to be the health and well-being of Austin and his family."
Watson is now eligible to return on Nov. 15 against the Arizona Coyotes.
