The NHL has suspended Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy for six regular-season games after his slash on Buffalo Sabres forward Zach Benson during Game 6 of the teams’ first-round playoff series on May 1.
The league announced the discipline Tuesday following an in-person hearing at NHL offices in New York City. Because the suspension is longer than five games, McAvoy and the NHL Players’ Association can appeal the ruling to commissioner Gary Bettman and, if needed, to a neutral arbitrator.
The suspension will be served at the start of the 2026-27 season.
The incident happened with 1:31 remaining in Buffalo’s 4-1 win as the Sabres closed in on a commanding 3-2 series lead. After Benson tripped McAvoy during an icing play, the Bruins defenseman got back to his feet, skated through several players and delivered a forceful two-handed slash across Benson’s torso. Officials assessed McAvoy a five-minute major penalty for slashing along with an automatic game misconduct, while Benson received a minor penalty for tripping.
In its explanation, the NHL called the slash an intentional act of retaliation that occurred outside the normal course of play with the game and series outcome already decided. The league also dismissed arguments that Benson’s trip justified the response, stating that players are still responsible for illegal actions regardless of prior contact.
McAvoy now owns three career suspensions, making this the longest ban of his NHL career.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.