Jamie Benn Fined for Cross-Check in Playoff Game Against Wild

Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn has been fined for a cross-check on Minnesota Wild forward Ryan Hartman during a tense moment in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series. The incident unfolded with 5:15 remaining in the Wild’s 4-2 victory on Tuesday night, which gave Minnesota a 3-2 lead in the series.

The NHL imposed the maximum allowable fine of $2,604.17 against Benn, a penalty that will be directed to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. The clash began when Hartman delivered a high shove to Benn near the Minnesota net. In retaliation, Benn responded with a series of cross-checks, first to Hartman’s back and then around the neck and shoulder area.

As a result of the altercation, Benn received a minor penalty for cross-checking, while Hartman was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct, leading to a brief 4-on-4 situation on the ice. The Wild will have the opportunity to clinch their first playoff series victory since 2015 when they host Game 6 on Thursday night.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.