May 11, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars left wing Mason Marchment (27) is tripped up as he shoots the puck past Winnipeg Jets defenseman Neal Pionk (4) and defenseman Dylan Samberg (54) during the second period in game three of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Stars Forward Avoids Discipline for Abuse of Official

Originally posted on Breakaway on SI | By Nick Horwat | Last updated May 11, 2025 8:51 PM ET

The Dallas Stars managed to take a commanding 2-1 series lead over the Winnipeg Jets thanks to a big win on home ice in Game 3. While the Stars pulled out the win, it wasn’t without some drama and animosity.

Throughout the second period, Stars forward Mason Marchment was taking a beating with infractions from the Jets, and on-ice officials were not making any calls. Marchment’s tempers boiled over briefly, and he took his anger out by striking an official with his stick.

Marchment’s slash wasn’t overly aggressive and didn’t referee Graham Skilliter didn’t even break stride. Regardless of how heavy the strike is, it’s extremely frowned upon to make contact with a referee in any way, opening Marchment up to quite a bit of discipline.

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Marchment will not face any extra discipline for his actions. Friedman notes that situations like this are usually up to the official to determine if something qualifies as Abuse of Official. Skilliter determined there wasn’t enough to punish Marchment.

Also from Winnipeg/Dallas:

League has discussed incident at end of second period between Mason Marchment and referee Graham Skilliter.

It is on-ice officials' call to decide if that qualifies as an Abuse of Officials violation. The answer was no...so no further action
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) May 12, 2025

Marchment was unhappy with the officiating and let those in stripes know about it, but his love tap wasn’t enough to add extra discipline.

Friedman notes that Marchment took a few moments likely to apologize to Skilliter before the puck was dropped on the third period of play.

Abuse of Official penalties are rare but have happened numerous times in the history of the NHL. The punishments have also varied from fines to 20-game suspensions.

Chicago Blackhawks young superstar Connor Bedard was recently given a 10-minute game misconduct for abuse of an official nearing the end of the 2024-25 season.

Marchment's apology likely saved him from possible discipline and he will continue to be available as the Stars look to advance to the Western Conference Final for the third consecutive season.

This article first appeared on Breakaway on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: