While it's not unusual to see Tkachuk involved in a scuffle, Pastrnak rarely engages in physical confrontations. However, during the Panthers' dominant performance over the Bruins, Pastrnak decided to stand up to Tkachuk, leading to an unexpected fight.
Though Tkachuk, with more fighting experience, clearly had the upper hand, the brawl could ignite more intensity as the series moves back to Boston for game three.
It's a rarity in the NHL to see two players, each known for surpassing the 100-point mark, drop their gloves, especially in the playoffs. Both have experienced the sting of near victory, with Pastrnak losing in the Stanley Cup Finals to St. Louis and Tkachuk to Vegas, adding layers to their competitive fire in this postseason.