The NHL has fined Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin and Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov $5,000 each for their roles in a bench altercation during Friday night's game at TD Garden.
The league's Department of Player Safety announced the decision on Saturday and the figures represent the maximum fine allowable under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
The incident occurred late in the first period of the Penguins' 2–1 victory over the Bruins.
Zadorov, playing for the first season in Boston after signing with the franchise last offseason, poked Malkin from the bench with his stick and the veteran forward retaliated with a slash, sparking a brief skirmish.
Both players were penalized on the ice, with Zadorov assessed a minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct and Malkin receiving a minor for slashing.
"It's hockey-sometimes, things get heated," Malkin said about his exchange with Zadorov.
"We're old friends, yeah, sure," Zadorov said when asked about whether or not he has a history with Malkin that could have led to the altercation, per Bridgette Proulx. "I'm not going to say more about that."
Boston Bruins right wing Justin Brazeau (55) celebrates with defenseman Nikita Zadorov (91). Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Through games played Saturday, Zadorov has racked up 50 penalty minutes and is tied for the lead on that front with Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk.
Meanwhile, Malkin is not known for incurring penalties and has spent just 14 minutes inside the penalty box this season.
With the win over Boston and a subsequent one against the Flames, the Penguins have improved to a 10-12-4 record on the season. Boston will try to bounce back on Sunday facing the hapless Montreal Canadiens while boasting a 11-11-3 record.
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