Malkin Suspended 5 Games For Slashing Dahlin
Written By Gina Anton
The NHL Department of Player Safety has suspended Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins for five games without pay for slashing Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres during NHL Game No. 977 in Pittsburgh on March 5.
The incident occurred 38 seconds into the second period when Dahlin cross-checked Malkin in front of the net. Malkin responded by raising his stick and striking Dahlin up high. Officials assessed Malkin a minor penalty for cross-checking, a major penalty for slashing, and a game misconduct, resulting in his immediate ejection from the game.
The Department of Player Safety determined the slash was intentional and dangerous, leading to the five-game suspension. The ruling followed a phone hearing with Malkin, which limited the possible discipline to five games or fewer.
Despite the slash from Malkin, Dahlin was not reportedly injured on the play and remained available for Buffalo after the incident.
Impact on Penguins’ lineup
Malkin’s suspension will sideline him for five games, leaving a significant hole in Pittsburgh’s lineup during a crucial stretch of the season. The veteran center has been a key offensive contributor for the Penguins this year, recording 47 points in 46 games.
During the suspension, Pittsburgh is expected to rely more heavily on its remaining centers and depth forwards to replace Malkin’s production on both the power play and at even strength. The absence comes at an important point in the schedule, with several games against competitive opponents in the playoff race.
Malkin will be eligible to return to the lineup March 16.
Contract Questions
Malkin’s long-term future with Pittsburgh remains uncertain as he approaches the end of his current contract. The 39-year-old center is in the final season of a four-year deal that expires after the 2025-26 season, which would make him an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2026, if a new agreement is not reached. While Malkin has expressed a strong desire to remain with the Penguins and finish his career in Pittsburgh, both he and the organization have indicated that contract discussions will wait until after the season before any decision is made.
“Wait until the end of the season and see what's going on,” Malkin said. “Nothing I can say right now.”
For now, Malkin’s focus remains on returning from his five-game suspension, helping Pittsburgh secure a playoff position, and then meeting with management in the offseason to determine whether he will sign a new deal, continue his career elsewhere, or potentially consider retirement.
