Controversy Erupts as Benn Punches Scheifele in Game 5

Dallas, Texas – Tensions flared during Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs Thursday night as Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn delivered a punch to Winnipeg Jets forward Mark Scheifele, igniting outrage among fans and prompting disciplinary action from the NHL.

The incident occurred late in the second period during a scuffle along the boards. As officials intervened, Benn threw a left-hand punch that sent Scheifele to the ice. The hit led to an immediate scrum, with both players and officials struggling to regain control of the situation.

Benn received a minor penalty for roughing and a 10-minute game misconduct for the incident. Meanwhile, Scheifele received a minor for roughing, and Jets forward Brandon Tanev was ejected with a game misconduct as well. Despite the aggressive play, the Stars could not capitalize on the situation, ultimately losing the game 4-0.

The NHL’s Department of Player Safety announced Friday that Benn was fined the maximum allowable amount of $5,000 under the league’s collective bargaining agreement. “Dallas’ Jamie Benn has been fined $5,000 for roughing Winnipeg’s Mark Scheifele,” the department stated.

Fans voiced their displeasure on social media, calling for a suspension instead of just a fine. Comments ranged from “Jamie Benn should be suspended at least a game” to “Definitely a suspension. What a dirt bag.”

As the Stars prepare for Game 6 on Saturday night, all eyes are on whether Benn will continue his aggressive play or if the league’s fine will impact his performance. With just one assist in five playoff games and a total of only three points across 13 games, Benn’s performance has come under scrutiny as well.

“It was hard for me to understand either. My face hurts,” Scheifele shared on Friday, reflecting on the incident. “Couldn’t really protect myself, my arms were pinned at my side, so definitely didn’t feel good.”

With the Stars leading the series 3-2, the outcome of Game 6 will be critical to the teams’ playoff ambitions.