Brady Tkachuk Fined for Slashing Opponent From Bench

The Senators captain was penalized and fined for an unusual off-ice infraction during a key game against the Sabres.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 6:09pm

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A vibrant, expressionist painting in neon colors depicts the violent motion of a hockey player striking an opponent with his stick, the faces and logos dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of paint, conveying the raw energy and emotion of the incident.An explosive, neon-hued illustration captures the raw emotion and physicality of an NHL player's unsportsmanlike conduct, as the league grapples with disciplining its stars.Philadelphia Today

In a bizarre incident during a game against the Buffalo Sabres, Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk was called for a slashing penalty and subsequently fined by the NHL for unsportsmanlike conduct, despite being seated on the bench at the time of the infraction. Tkachuk struck an opposing player in the face with his stick while his team was on the ice, drawing the unusual penalty and fine.

Why it matters

Tkachuk's actions, while highly unusual, highlight the importance of discipline and leadership for a team fighting for a playoff spot in the tight Eastern Conference race. The Senators need their captain to set a good example, and this incident raises questions about Tkachuk's decision-making and ability to keep his emotions in check during crucial games.

The details

Midway through the first period, Ottawa's Jordan Spence was pursuing Buffalo's Beck Malenstyn near the boards when Malenstyn was pushed into the Senators' bench. While seated on the bench, Tkachuk struck Malenstyn in the face with the butt end of his stick, drawing a two-minute minor penalty for slashing from the official who witnessed the infraction. Tkachuk was later involved in another incident, dropping the gloves with Logan Stanley, and was subsequently fined $2,500 by the NHL for unsportsmanlike conduct.

  • The slashing incident occurred midway through the first period.
  • Tkachuk was later involved in a fight with Logan Stanley in the same period.

The players

Brady Tkachuk

The captain of the Ottawa Senators, known for his physical and sometimes undisciplined style of play.

Jordan Spence

An Ottawa Senators player who was involved in the play that led to Tkachuk's slashing penalty.

Beck Malenstyn

A Buffalo Sabres player who was struck in the face by Tkachuk's stick while on the Senators' bench.

Logan Stanley

A Buffalo Sabres player who fought with Tkachuk later in the game.

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What they’re saying

“Brady Tkachuk just got a 2-minute slashing minor while SITTING ON THE BENCH 😳 He caught Beck Malenstyn in the face with the buttend of his stick 🫣”

— Gino Hard

What’s next

The NHL will likely review Tkachuk's actions and decide if any additional discipline is warranted beyond the fine for unsportsmanlike conduct.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for Tkachuk and the Senators to maintain discipline and focus as they fight for a playoff spot in the tight Eastern Conference race. As the team's captain, Tkachuk must set a better example for his teammates and avoid costly mistakes that could hurt the team's chances.