Evgeni Malkin, the veteran center for the Pittsburgh Penguins, has been suspended for five games for slashing Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin in the head. The incident occurred during Thursday's game at PPG Paints Arena, resulting in a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for Malkin. The NHL Department of Player Safety announced the suspension on Friday following a hearing with Malkin.
The play in question saw Malkin and Dahlin engaging in some pushing and shoving in front of the Sabres' net. After a cross-check from Dahlin, Malkin responded by slashing Dahlin in the side of the head with his stick. Malkin then attempted to fight Dahlin before being separated by officials. Dahlin, though shaken, remained in the game. The Sabres capitalized on the ensuing power play, scoring twice and ultimately winning the game 5-1.
This marks the third suspension of Malkin's 20-year NHL career. He previously received a one-game suspension in 2019 for high-sticking and a four-game suspension in 2022 for cross-checking. Malkin will miss games against the Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes, Vegas Golden Knights, and Utah Mammoth, being eligible to return on March 16 against the Colorado Avalanche. The suspension will also cost Malkin nearly $160,000.
Penguins General Manager Kyle Dubas acknowledged the immediate impact of the suspension, especially with the trade deadline looming. The Penguins, currently trying to solidify their playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, will need other players to step up in Malkin's absence. Malkin has 13 goals and 47 points in 46 games this season.
