The Boston Bruins fell 5-4 in a shootout to the Florida Panthers on Wednesday, ending Florida’s four-game losing streak. Boston came back from a 4-2 deficit in the third period with goals from Mark Kastelic and Casey Mittelstadt to force overtime, but the Panthers ultimately prevailed.
The game caught attention not only for the scoring but also for a hit that brought player safety and league discipline into focus.
Bruins’ Charlie McAvoy Draws NHL Attention After Dangerous Hit by Panthers Forward
During the game, Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy took an elbow to the head from Panthers rookie Sandis Vilmanis in the first period. McAvoy briefly left the ice but returned to continue playing, while Vilmanis was given only a two-minute minor for the hit.
Dr. Harjas Grewal noted, “Likely concussion protocol for McAvoy. Unlikely, but would want to check for any facial fracture. Concussions have variable recovery timelines, but if all goes well, he could clear concussion protocol prior to 1st Olympic game.”
McAvoy later shared a side-by-side photo on X showing his swollen face next to the video of the hit, bringing attention to NHL Player Safety.
The post sparked strong reactions from the hockey insiders. Ken Campbell wrote, “Charlie McAvoy absolutely shreds ‘The Violent Gentleman’ and his cabal of goons at @NHLPlayerSafety. Go ahead, fine him. I dare you.”
James Mirtle added, “The man has a point,” and Conor Ryan commented, “Somehow no additional discipline off that elbow. Wild stuff.”
Rachel Kryshak tweeted, “Charlie McAvoy rightfully calling out @NHLPlayerSafety. I wondered which player would finally do that. Good for him.” Allan Walsh shared, “F*** Parros and his gang of kangaroos.”
Bruins coach Marco Sturm addressed the hit after the game, saying, “It was a brutal hit. Obviously, I have the opportunity to look at the replay too and to come out with a four-on-four like that … I just didn’t understand it. That’s all. I’m here to protect my guys, especially Charlie. And if you target his head, which was clear to see, that just pisses me off. But anyway.”
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Charlie McAvoy, 28, drafted 14th overall in 2016, has played 45 games this season with 4 goals and 35 assists for 39 points. He averages over 24 minutes per game, showing his importance to Boston’s defense and contributing offensively from the blue line.
Despite the hit, McAvoy is expected to compete for Team USA at the Winter Olympics.
After the Olympic break, the Bruins will face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. ET. Boston will enter the game with a 32-20-5 record, aiming to continue their seven-game point streak, while Columbus, at 29-20-7, will challenge them on home ice.
