NHL Fines Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov $5,000 for Cross-Checking Sabres’ Rasmus Dahlin in Game 4

The NHL has handed Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov a $5,000 fine—the maximum allowed under the league’s collective bargaining agreement—for his late cross-check on Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin during Game 4 of their first-round playoff series. The incident, which occurred with 16:43 remaining in regulation, capped off a lopsided 6-0 loss for the Bruins and sparked a brief scrum between the teams.

The Incident: What Happened?

With the Bruins trailing 6-0 late in Game 4, play was whistled dead at 16:43 of the third period. Zadorov, a physical defenseman known for his aggressive play, approached Dahlin near center ice and delivered a forceful cross-check that broke his stick. He then swiped at Dahlin, escalating tensions between the teams. The referees assessed Zadorov a five-minute cross-checking major and a game misconduct, ejecting him from the contest.

The NHL reviewed the play and announced the $5,000 fine on Monday, April 27, 2026. Bruins head coach Marco Sturm was asked postgame whether he expected supplemental discipline but declined to speculate. “I don’t know,” Sturm said. “I can’t answer that. I don’t know. Sorry.”

Zadorov’s Reputation and Playoff History

Zadorov, who led the NHL with 152 penalty minutes during the 2025-26 regular season, has a history of physical play. He was called for six major penalties and four 10-minute misconducts this season but had avoided a game misconduct until Game 4. His aggressive style has made him a polarizing figure, though Bruins fans often appreciate his hard-nosed approach.

In Game 4, Zadorov logged 19:20 of ice time on the third defensive pair and was credited with four hits, including a notable collision with Sabres forward Jack Quinn in the second period. Despite the physicality, Sabres players largely avoided discussing the incident postgame. Goalie Alex Lyon claimed he didn’t notice the hit, while forward Zach Benson—who received a penalty for retaliating—admitted he only heard Zadorov’s stick break.

“I just heard a stick break. I didn’t really see it. I haven’t seen it yet.”

—Zach Benson, Buffalo Sabres forward

Reactions and Fallout

The incident quickly went viral on social media, with fans and analysts debating whether Zadorov’s actions warranted a suspension. Some argued the hit was unnecessary given the game’s lopsided score, while others dismissed it as playoff hockey’s physical nature. The NHL’s decision to fine Zadorov rather than suspend him suggests the league viewed the infraction as severe but not egregious enough to warrant a multi-game ban.

For the Bruins, the loss—and the late-game altercation—only added to their struggles in the series. After dominating the regular season, Boston has looked outmatched against Buffalo, raising questions about their postseason readiness.

Key Takeaways

• Fine Details: Nikita Zadorov was fined $5,000, the maximum allowed under the NHL’s CBA, for cross-checking Rasmus Dahlin in Game 4.
• Penalties Assessed: Zadorov received a five-minute major and a game misconduct for the hit.
• Regular Season Stats: Zadorov led the NHL with 152 penalty minutes during the 2025-26 season.
• Series Context: The incident occurred in a 6-0 loss for the Bruins, who trail the Sabres in the first-round series.
• League Response: The NHL opted for a fine rather than a suspension, indicating the hit was not deemed suspension-worthy.

What’s Next for the Bruins?

Boston faces an uphill battle to avoid elimination in the series. With their backs against the wall, the Bruins must regroup quickly to salvage their playoff hopes. Zadorov’s fine won’t sideline him for Game 5, but the team will need to avoid further disciplinary issues as they look to rebound.

For the Sabres, the win—and the late-game drama—could provide momentum as they aim to close out the series. Dahlin, who was on the receiving complete of Zadorov’s hit, will likely be monitored closely in the coming days, though there have been no reports of injury.

FAQ

Why was Nikita Zadorov fined?

Zadorov was fined $5,000 for cross-checking Rasmus Dahlin late in Game 4 of the Bruins-Sabres playoff series. The NHL deemed the hit worthy of a fine but not a suspension.

What penalties did Zadorov receive during the game?

Zadorov was assessed a five-minute cross-checking major and a game misconduct, which ejected him from the contest.

Has Zadorov faced discipline before?

Zadorov led the NHL in penalty minutes during the 2025-26 regular season (152) and was called for six major penalties and four 10-minute misconducts. Still, this was his first game misconduct of the season.

Will Zadorov be suspended for Game 5?

No. The NHL fined Zadorov $5,000 but did not suspend him, meaning he will be available to play in Game 5.

How has the Bruins-Sabres series played out so far?

The Sabres lead the series after a dominant 6-0 win in Game 4. The Bruins, who had a strong regular season, have struggled to match Buffalo’s intensity in the playoffs.