NHL star Evgeni Malkin ejected for slashing opponent across the face, could face suspension

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Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin lost his cool during the second period of the team’s 5-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday at PPG Paints Arena, and slashed Rasmus Dahlin across the face.

After the whistle blew just 38 seconds in the second period, Dahlin and Malkin engaged in some extra circular activities. Dahlin cross-checked Malkin, and the Penguins star responded by bringing his stick up and whacking Dahlin across the face.

After slashing Dahlin, Malkin wrapped up Dahlin behind the head. The pair was eventually separated.

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Rasmus Dahlin (26) of the Buffalo Sabres argues with Evgeni Malkin (71) of the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG PAINTS Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on March 5, 2026. (Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images)

Dahlin received a cross-checking penalty for his infraction while Malkin received a penalty for cross-checking, a five-minute major for slashing and was ejected from the game.

Penguins head coach Dan Muse didn't comment on Malkin's penalty after the game.

"He's obviously a catalyst for our team," said Bryan Rust, who scored Pittsburgh's only goal. "He drives a lot of play and creates a lot of offense. He's an unbelievable player, so it's unfortunate."

Pittsburgh Penguins' Evgeni Malkin (71) skates during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Buffalo Sabres in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on March 5, 2026. (Gene J. Puskar/AP Photo)

Sabres forward Josh Norris scored on the power play from Malkin’s penalty to make it 2-1, and the Sabres never looked back after that.

Malkin, who has been suspended twice in his career, has a hearing with the