Nikita Zadorov Fined $5,000 for Cross-Check on Rasmus Dahlin

In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference first-round series on April 26, 2026, Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov cross-checked Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin at centre ice after a whistle with the Sabres leading 6-0. Officials assessed a five-minute major and a game misconduct; the NHL Department of Player Safety later fined Zadorov $5,000, the maximum under the CBA.

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Buffalo took a 3-1 series lead after a 6-1 win, having erased a 4-0 first-period deficit. Zadorov entered the playoffs with a league-leading 152 penalty minutes and 37 minutes in the first four games; he posted 22 points (2 G, 20 A) in 81 regular-season games and is in the second year of a six-year, $30 million contract. Dahlin, 26, is Buffalo’s captain and top defenseman.

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The NHL Department of Player Safety announced the fine and said the forfeited amount will go to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said he understood the emotion behind the incident and emphasized the league’s duty to uphold higher standards. Bruins coach Marco Sturm said he could not confirm a suspension and expressed uncertainty about further discipline.

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The fine without a suspension was criticized as insufficient given the severity of the cross-check and the risk of injury. Observers noted the decision suggests a high threshold for playoff suspensions, prompting calls for clearer standards.

Nikita Zadorov punished by NHL Player Safety as Bruins avoid bigger blow

Field Level Media reported the cross-check occurred with 16:43 remaining in the third period, while Daily Faceoff cited 3:17 left. No official clarification has been issued.

Zadorov Fined Maximum $5K for Cross-Check on Dahlin in Game 4

The $5,000 fine does not trigger a suspension, so Zadorov remains eligible for Game 5, preserving the Bruins’ defensive lineup. Buffalo, up 3-1, will aim to close the series at KeyBank Center on Tuesday.

Bruins’ Zadorov given maximum fine for cross-checking Sabres’ Dahlin

• “Boston’s Nikita Zadorov has been fined $5,000, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for cross-checking Buffalo’s Rasmus Dahlin,” — NHL Department of Player Safety, X

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• “I understand the emotion of that because of the way the game went,” — Lindy Ruff, Buffalo Sabres head coach

Bruins' Zadorov fined $5K for cross-check on Sabres' Dahlin

• “You see that in playoff games. That type of raw emotion it’s because a player is so frustrated with the game. There’s lots of bantering back and forth inside the game. It’s not a play you want. I’m pretty sure if that’s the regular season that might even be a suspension. Could have easily broken Rasmus’ arm with the cross-check.” — Lindy Ruff, Buffalo Sabres head coach

Bruins' Zadorov fined $5K for cross-check on Sabres' Dahlin

• “I can’t answer that. I don’t know. Sorry.” — Marco Sturm, Boston Bruins head coach

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• “I think the message is consistent from them is that they’re going to hold the game to a higher standard,” — Lindy Ruff, Buffalo Sabres head coach

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