Washington's Dylan McIlrath has been fined $2,018.23, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for unsportsmanlike conduct during last night's pre-game warm-up against Montreal.
It looks like the NHL is serious about cracking down on pregame antics, as Dylan McIlrath has become the latest player to face disciplinary action.
Interestingly, Canadiens enforcer Arber Xhekaj was also fined for unsportsmanlike conduct, as the league continues to make player safety a top priority -- especially with emotions running high and intensity ramping up as the series progresses.
NHL issues fine to Dylan McIlrath
Although no footage of the pregame altercation has surfaced, Dylan McIlrath has long been known as a tough customer for the Washington Capitals.
Pregame warmups are often when players like to play mind games, inching closer and closer to the centre line.
As they cross paths, it's common for players to exchange the infamous "love tap" with their sticks -- but sometimes, things go a little far.
While it's unfortunate that McIlrath ended up getting fined, it's at least encouraging to see the Canadiens being held to the same standard.
The Washington Capitals will look to tighten up their game and avoid any further fines when they face off against the Canadiens on Tuesday.