NHL Announces Punishment for Panthers' Brad Marchand

The situation began when Dahlin cross-checked Marchand from behind midway through the frame, a hit that went uncalled. Moments later, Marchand retaliated by dragging Dahlin to the ice and throwing several punches before officials intervened.

Referees assessed Marchand two minor penalties for interference and roughing, giving Buffalo a power play. As he skated to the penalty box, the 37-year-old carried Dahlin’s helmet with him, tearing off its straps before tossing it back onto the ice while sitting in the penalty box.

Dahlin was forced to borrow Peyton Krebs’ helmet temporarily while the equipment staff repaired his own.

Marchand was loudly booed by the home crowd when he returned, but avoided suspension, with Dahlin downplaying the exchange after the game.

The Sabres capitalized on the ensuing advantage, with Josh Doan scoring his second power-play goal of the game to extend the lead to 2–0. Owen Power later added another as Buffalo shut out the defending Stanley Cup champions 3–0.

The loss marked Florida’s fourth straight defeat, dropping the Panthers to 3–4–0 on the season and leaving them winless on their current road trip. They’ll face the Boston Bruins next on Tuesday in Marchand’s first return to TD Garden as an active player since being traded to Florida last season.