Mike Green of the Washington Capitals leads all NHL defencemen in both goals and assists. Mike Green of the Washington Capitals leads all NHL defencemen in both goals and assists. (Greg Fiume/Getty Images)

The NHL suspended Mike Green for three games on Saturday for his actions in the previous night's game against Florida.

The Washington Capitals defenceman elbowed Florida forward Michael Frolik in the head early in the first period of the game won by Washington. Green incurred a minor penalty on the play.

In addition to the suspension, Green will forfeit just under $82,000 US, with the money going to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

Green will be eligible to return for a Feb. 5 game for the Capitals, who have won nine consecutive games.

He leads all NHL defencemen with 12 goals and 40 assists through 52 games, with a plus-22 rating.