Niko Mikkola of the Florida Panthers has been fined $5,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct following an incident during a recent game against the Montreal Canadiens. With just two seconds left on the clock and the Panthers trailing 4-2, Mikkola took a slapshot down the ice that nearly struck Canadiens players, prompting their displeasure. The NHL Department of Player Safety labeled this action as deserving of a fine, which is the maximum allowed under the collective bargaining agreement.

In this season, Mikkola has been productive on the ice, setting career highs with five goals and 16 assists across 68 games. Despite the recent penalty, his contributions to the team have been significant, marking him as a key player to watch as the season progresses.