Brad Marchand Ejected After Tussle with Shayne Gostisbehere

Boston, MA – Brad Marchand‘s night ended abruptly during Game 1 of the NHL playoffs on Tuesday after an altercation with Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere.

The incident unfolded at 8:15 in the third period, with the Panthers leading 5-2 at the Lenovo Center. Marchand attempted to check Gostisbehere along the boards but missed largely. In retaliation, Gostisbehere shot the puck directly at Marchand, which prompted a physical confrontation.

Both players were penalized for roughing; however, Marchand received a double minor for roughing and a 10-minute misconduct, totaling 14 minutes of penalties. Referees escorted him to the locker room with just under 12 minutes left in regulation.

After the game, Marchand expressed his frustration about the incident, stating he was “pretty pissed off” as he believed he was provoked. Gostisbehere confirmed he shot the puck at Marchand as a reaction to Marchand’s prior hit.

While the Panthers kept their comments brief, forward A.J. Greer declined to elaborate, saying, “We’ll see next game, we’re just going to keep playing hard.”

Panthers head coach Paul Maurice also refrained from discussing the incident, stating, “I’ve got one. I’ll be keeping that to myself.”

Despite the rough play, it is unlikely the NHL will impose further discipline on Marchand following the incident. The series continues Thursday with Game 2 in Carolina.