Niko Mikkola Fined for Dangerous Play – Will the Habs Settle It on the Ice Tomorrow?

The NHL just made a big statement—Florida Panthers defenseman Niko Mikkola has been slapped with the maximum fine possible for his dangerous play against the Montreal Canadiens in yesterday’s game!

The league’s Department of Player Safety didn’t hold back, hitting Mikkola with a $5,000 fine—the highest allowed under the CBA—for unsportsmanlike conduct after his late-game antics.

Panthers Player Under Fire for Suspendable Gesture Late in Game vs Canadiens https://t.co/9ozE7Lz4sX #GoHabsGo #Canadiens

— Habs Fanatics (@habsfanaticss) March 30, 2025

The NHL Department of Player Safety released the following statement: 

"Niko Mikkola of Florida has been fined $5,000, the maximum allowable under the collective bargaining agreement, for unsportsmanlike conduct during last night's game against Montreal."

While a suspension wasn’t on the table for this kind of play, the message is clear: the NHL isn’t tolerating reckless behavior. 

And with the Habs set for a high-stakes rematch TOMORROW at the Bell Centre, things could get heated—especially if Arber Xhekaj is in the lineup.

Arber Xhekaj Has a Plan for Niko Mikkola After His Cheap Shot at the End of the Game https://t.co/sHUVxDRa5y #GoHabsGo #Canadiens

— Habs Fanatics (@habsfanaticss) March 31, 2025

The Canadiens are looking to SWEEP the season series against the defending Stanley Cup champs—and with tensions already flaring, tomorrow’s game is must-watch hockey.

Will the Habs get the last word? Or will the Panthers seek revenge? 

Image - Sam Navarro-Imagn