Charlie McAvoy swings stick at Zach Benson in playoff game

7 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 2

The incident came late in Game 6 as Buffalo led Boston 4-1, with the Sabres closing out the first-round series on Friday night.
McAvoy reacted after Benson appeared to slew-foot him, sending the Bruins defenceman into the boards before he lashed out with his stick.
The flashpoint overshadowed the finish as Boston exited the playoffs early again, while Buffalo won its first playoff series since 2007.

How might the Sabres' long-awaited playoff win be overshadowed by controversy over player safety and officiating in the 2026 playoffs?

Could McAvoy's retaliation spark changes in how the NHL enforces on-ice discipline, or will it be business as usual next season?