Over the past few years, there has never seemed to be a shortage of fireworks when the Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins get together.
Between the multiple playoff series, the big hits, the fines, the suspensions and the change of sides of Brad Marchand, there was enough to fuel the fire between these two division rivals.
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In that regard, the last meeting between the Cats and Bruins did not disappoint.
During the first period of Florida’s 5-4 win over Boston on Wednesday night at Sunrise, Panthers rookie Sandis Vilmanis caught Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy with what appeared to be a right elbow to the head.
As McAvoy carried the puck out of the Boston zone, Vilmanis crossed the ice and then slowed down just before making contact. He then turned and braced his body, getting up and grabbing McAvoy in the side of the face forcefully.
Vilmanis was given a two-minute minor penalty for an illegal head check while McAvoy was helped off the ice, but fortunately was able to return to the game.
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McAvoy will also represent Team USA at the Winter Olympics this month.
On Friday evening, McAvoy decided to take to social media and make a little statement on the occasion.
In an article on
There were no comments to accompany the video and photo.
The perception is that McAvoy is not happy that the NHL’s Department of Player Safety has not decided to impose additional disciplinary measures on Vilmanis for the hit.
No fine. No suspension. Just the first two-minute minor, which didn’t even help the Bruins, as Boston was called for two minors on the same play, one for roughing Vilmanis and a bench minor for unsportsmanlike conduct.
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While many fans are quick to side with McAvoy, others are denouncing a player who has also dished out his share of controversial hits.
That includes several against the Panthers, like these two occurring in the same game.
Look, it’s hockey.
These things, for better or worse, are part of the game.
Fortunately, McAvoy did not suffer anything serious or long-term, and he will be able to live out his childhood dream of donning the United States jersey at the Olympic Games.
Sure, he might have to carry a fishbowl during a game, but that’s also hockey.
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Photo caption: February 4, 2026; Sunrise, Florida, United States; Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy (73) is helped off the ice by right wing David Pastrnak (88) after an apparent injury against the Florida Panthers during the first period at Amerant Bank Arena. (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)
