Bruins' Charlie McAvoy Calls Out NHL Player Safety After Dangerous Hit

McAvoy's social media post sparks strong reactions from hockey insiders ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 7:15am

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During a game between the Boston Bruins and Florida Panthers, Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy took an elbow to the head from Panthers rookie Sandis Vilmanis. McAvoy briefly left the ice but returned to continue playing, while Vilmanis was given only a two-minute minor for the hit. McAvoy later shared a side-by-side photo on social media showing his swollen face next to the video of the hit, bringing attention to NHL Player Safety and sparking strong reactions from the hockey community.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about player safety and the NHL's disciplinary process, especially as the upcoming Olympic Games approach. McAvoy's actions in calling out the league's response to the hit have drawn widespread attention to the issue.

The details

In the first period of the game, Vilmanis delivered an elbow to McAvoy's head, causing the Bruins defenseman to briefly leave the ice. Vilmanis was given a two-minute minor penalty for the hit, which many felt was an insufficient punishment. McAvoy later shared a photo on social media showing the damage to his face, drawing criticism of the NHL's player safety department and its handling of the incident.

  • The incident occurred during the first period of the Bruins-Panthers game on February 7, 2026.
  • McAvoy shared the side-by-side photo on social media shortly after the game.

The players

Charlie McAvoy

A 28-year-old defenseman for the Boston Bruins, drafted 14th overall in 2016. He is an important part of the Bruins' defense and contributes offensively from the blue line.

Sandis Vilmanis

A rookie forward for the Florida Panthers who delivered the elbow to McAvoy's head during the game.

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What they’re saying

“Charlie McAvoy absolutely shreds 'The Violent Gentleman' and his cabal of goons at @NHLPlayerSafety. Go ahead, fine him. I dare you.”

— Ken Campbell, Hockey Insider

“Somehow no additional discipline off that elbow. Wild stuff.”

— Conor Ryan, Hockey Journalist

“F*** Parros and his gang of kangaroos.”

— Allan Walsh

What’s next

Despite the hit, McAvoy is expected to compete for Team USA at the upcoming Winter Olympics. After the Olympic break, the Bruins will face the Columbus Blue Jackets on February 26.

The takeaway

This incident has sparked a renewed debate about player safety and the NHL's disciplinary process, with many calling for stronger action to be taken against dangerous hits. McAvoy's actions in highlighting the issue have drawn widespread attention and support from the hockey community.