The NHL was apparently willing to reduce the 10-game suspension levied to Antoine Vermette for his slash on linesman Shandor Alphonso down to five, but the Officials Association prevented an amendment, according to multiple reports.

It's believed Vermette met with the NHL on Thursday in an effort to lessen the punishment.

The slash was deemed to be the application of physical force without an intent to injure, which carries an automatic 10-game suspension.

If he chooses, Vermette has seven days to take his appeal to an independent arbitrator, or he stands to miss the 10 games and forfeit nearly $100,000 in salary.

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