The NHL has suspended Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin for five games after slashing Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin during Thursday’s game between the teams.
The incident occurred early in the second period near Buffalo’s net. Dahlin delivered a cross-check to Malkin during a battle for position, prompting officials to signal a delayed penalty against the Sabres defenseman. Before play was stopped, Malkin retaliated by swinging his stick and striking Dahlin in the head. Officials assessed Malkin a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct and escorted him from the ice before the situation escalated.
The NHL’s Department of Player Safety announced the suspension Friday following a phone hearing with Malkin, determining the play involved an intentional stick swing delivered at a dangerous height that warranted supplemental discipline. Malkin will forfeit $158,854.15 in salary during the suspension.
The 39-year-old Penguins forward has previously been fined five times and suspended twice during his NHL career. He has recorded 13 goals and 47 points in 45 games this season.
Buffalo (37-19-6) avoided further injury to its top defenseman in the incident and returns to action Saturday at 5:30 p.m. when it hosts the Nashville Predators.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].