Penguins Star Evgeni Malkin Ejected After Slashing Sabres' Rasmus Dahlin

Malkin faces potential further discipline from the NHL after the wild on-ice incident.

Mar. 6, 2026 at 4:05am

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In a heated exchange during a game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Buffalo Sabres, Penguins center Evgeni Malkin was ejected after slashing Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin in the head and neck area. Malkin, a 20-year NHL veteran, received a match penalty for the slashing incident, which came after Dahlin had delivered some hard cross-checks to Malkin. It is unclear if Malkin will face additional discipline from the NHL for the incident.

Why it matters

Malkin has a history of suspensions and NHL discipline, including recent incidents in the 2022 season and 2019. This latest incident raises questions about player safety and the league's approach to curbing dangerous on-ice behavior, especially from veteran players.

The details

Late in the first period of the Sabres' 5-1 win, Malkin was given a match penalty for slashing after he and Dahlin battled for position in front of the net. Dahlin gave Malkin some hard cross-checks, which then prompted the 20-year NHL veteran to turn around and swing his stick, hitting Dahlin in the side of the head and the neck. Malkin was also issued a game misconduct, resulting in his immediate ejection.

  • The incident occurred late in the first period of the Sabres-Penguins game on March 5, 2026.

The players

Evgeni Malkin

A 39-year-old center for the Pittsburgh Penguins who has a history of suspensions and NHL discipline for on-ice incidents.

Rasmus Dahlin

A 25-year-old defenseman for the Buffalo Sabres who was involved in the altercation with Malkin.

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What’s next

The NHL will likely review the incident and determine if Malkin will face any additional punishment beyond the match penalty and game misconduct he received during the game.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenge the NHL faces in curbing dangerous on-ice behavior, especially from veteran players who have a history of disciplinary issues. The league's response will be closely watched as it seeks to balance player safety with the competitive nature of the sport.