Dallas Stars left winger Jamie Benn slammed Boston Bruins defenseman Brandon Carlo into the boards from behind during Thursday night's NHL game at American Airlines Arena.
It happened with about 7:20 remaining in the first period as the Stars held a 2-0 lead. Benn was chasing the puck as it rolled along the boards behind the Bruins net, with Carlo trying to keep himself between Benn and the puck. Carlo turned his back and stopped short to try to slow down Benn as he crossed the goal line. Benn skated full speed into Carlo's back, knocking him into the boards head first.
The whistle was blown immediately as Carlo was slow to get up. Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov immediately went after Benn in defense of his teammate and both players dropped the gloves. The fight lasted a little over 30 seconds, and Zadorov definitely got the best of it.
Jamie Benn nails Brandon Carlo from behind and Nikita Zadorov takes exception 🤕👊 pic.twitter.com/0ajCguJ5OK
— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) November 15, 2024
In the end, Benn was penalized two minutes for boarding and five for fighting. Zadorov was also penalized five minutes for fighting. Carlo came off the ice but returned to the game in the second period.
Benn has been ejected for boarding before, and this one was a similar hit from behind. Jamie Benn has delivered his share of dirty hits over the years, including spearing an opponent in the groin and cross-checking a player down on the ice. It is hard to understand why the officials gave him a break here.
Benn delivered an assist in the second period as the Stars extended their lead to 5-1 after two periods.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
