NHL Fines Ottawa Senators, Nick Cousins for Conduct Before Game 4 Against Maple Leafs

The NHL has fined Ottawa Senators forward Nick Cousins $2,083.33—the maximum allowed under the CBA—for unsportsmanlike conduct after he intentionally shot a puck at Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Anthony Stolarz during warmups before Game 3 of their playoff series. The Senators organization was also fined $25,000 for its role in the incident. Both teams' coaches and players downplayed the situation, noting that Cousins and Stolarz previously played together and suggesting the act may have been an attempt at gamesmanship rather than outright malice. The incident did not appear to rattle Stolarz, who helped Toronto secure another overtime win, putting Ottawa on the brink of elimination with a 3-0 series deficit. NHL officials emphasized their intent to curb pre-game antics to maintain discipline. Game 4 is set to take place in Ottawa, where the Senators will attempt to avoid elimination.