The NHL has announced two fines following Game 3 of the second-round series between the Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres.
The first was Sabers forward Beck Malensteen, who ran down Habs goaltender Jacob Dobbs in the second period. Malenstein never attempted to stop, hitting Dobbs at full speed in what looked like a clear attempt to injure the rookie netminder.
Malensteen was fined $3,515.63, the maximum allowable under the collective bargaining agreement.
Beck Malensteen ran him at full speed in an attempt to injure Jacob Dobbs.
No attempt to stop.
- Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 11 May 2026
He got a 2-minute penalty. pic.twitter.com/OOXGECxjl0
Game 3 saw a significant increase in goalie-related moves, with the Sabers attempting to disrupt Dobbs as often as possible.
The good news for the Canadiens is that Dobbs remained in the game, and was in good enough mood to chat up the Sabers bench after Juraj Slafkowski took advantage of the ensuing power play.
laugh out loud
Dobbs takes a little skate to thank the Buffalo bench after Slafkowski powerplay goal.
Classic. #GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/fjOyWZMyWn
- Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 11 May 2026
Xhekaj fined
The second penalty was awarded to Habs defenseman Arbor Zekaj, who decided it was a good idea to throw a pair of gloved punches at the end of the game, and felled Sabers forward Sam Carrick at the final whistle.
It was an ugly play, and although some may justify the action by pointing to several poor plays made by the Sabers early in the game, there really is no place for that in a hockey game.
Czekaj has been particularly efficient in the playoffs, producing excellent numbers on the third pairing, meaning the Canadiens are lucky not to have to lose him due to suspension, but they must be careful not to let emotions boil over moving forward. He performs at his best when he walks the line, not when he goes past it.
Arbor Zekaj has been fined $3,385.42 for abusing Sam Carrick. pic.twitter.com/JPNvfzw3IQ
- Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) 11 May 2026
