Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin was ejected from Thursday night's NHL game against Buffalo for slashing Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin across the face.
It happened just 38 seconds into the second period with the game tied at 1-1. Dahlin was working to prevent Malkin from getting position in front of the Sabres net, pushing to the side of the net and then cross-checking him in the back. Malkin retaliated as he turned around and whacked Dahlin in the side of the face and neck with his stick.
Evgeni Malkin received a 5 minute major for this slash and a 10 minute misconduct.
— BarDown (@BarDown) March 6, 2026
Do you think he should receive any supplemental discipline?
(🎥: NHL on ESPN) pic.twitter.com/NzT88dNTm2
Dahlin and Malkin were both given minor penalties for cross-checking. However, Malkin was also given a 5-minute major penalty for slashing and a 10-minute game misconduct, leading to his ejection from the game. This is not the first time Malkin has been ejected for swinging his stick at an opponent. He has been suspended twice in his career, which leads to speculation as to whether additional discipline may be forthcoming from the NHL Department of Player Safety.
The Penguins were already without Sidney Crosby, who was injured playing for Canada during the Olympics. The Sabres took control of the game in the second period with three goals, including one during the power play resulting from Malkin's ejections, on the way to a 5-1 victory.
This was the fifth consecutive win for the Sabres, who are on track to make the playoffs for the first time since 2011. Meanwhile, the Penguins have lost 3 of their last 4.
[@BarDown]
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports).
