Bruins' Charlie McAvoy faces NHL hearing after playoff exit slashing incident
The Boston Bruins’ playoff run came to an abrupt end with a 4-1 defeat to the Buffalo Sabres in Game 6. Now, the team faces another setback as star defenceman Charlie McAvoy prepares for a disciplinary hearing with the NHL. The incident in question occurred during the final minute of that decisive loss.
McAvoy was handed a slashing penalty and a game misconduct late in Saturday’s match. The play involved Sabres forward Zach Benson, though details of the altercation remain under review. Due to the severity of the penalty, the NHL’s Department of Player Safety scheduled an in-person hearing for May 11 in New York City.
Under league rules, an in-person hearing suggests a potential suspension of at least six games. When questioned on Sunday, McAvoy declined to discuss the situation, stating he would respect the process. His absence could now extend into the start of the 2026-27 season, depending on the outcome of the hearing. The Bruins will await the NHL’s decision while preparing for next season. McAvoy’s disciplinary case adds further challenge after their early playoff exit.
A suspension would keep McAvoy off the ice for the opening games of the new campaign. The Bruins must now plan for his potential absence while the league finalises its ruling. The hearing’s result will determine how long the team will be without one of its top defenders.
