“A dirt bag”: Fans call for suspension as Jamie Benn fined for controversial cheap shot on Mark Scheifele in Game 5

Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn is once again under fire after delivering a blatant cheap shot during Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Winnipeg Jets. The 35-year-old forward reignited his reputation as an instigator with a punch that left fans and analysts demanding more than just a slap on the wrist.In the second period of Thursday night’s game, tensions flared during a scuffle along the boards. As officials attempted to separate the players, Benn delivered a left-hand punch directly to the face of Jets forward Mark Scheifele. The blow sent Scheifele crashing to the ice, sparking an even larger scrum as he tried to retaliate once back on his feet.Officials quickly handed out penalties: Benn received a minor for roughing and a 10-minute game misconduct. Scheifele got a roughing minor, while Jets forward Brandon Tanev was also ejected with a game misconduct. Despite the chaos, Dallas couldn’t capitalize on the physical play and went on to lose 4-0.The NHL’s Department of Player Safety announced Friday morning that Benn would be fined $5,000—the maximum allowed under the league’s collective bargaining agreement. “Dallas’ Jamie Benn has been fined $5,000, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for roughing Winnipeg’s Mark Scheifele late in Thursday night’s game,” the department stated.But fans aren’t having it. Outrage poured across social media platforms, with many calling the decision far too lenient. “Jamie Benn should be suspended at least a game. Biggest ‘cheap’ shot I’ve ever seen in hockey,” one fan wrote. Others chimed in with comments like “100% that should be a suspension,” and “Definitely a suspension. Ref is holding his arms and he clocks him in the face. What a dirt bag.”Also Read: Is Sidney Crosby’s commitment to hockey stronger than his relationship? Why he still hasn’t married Kathy Leutner after 15 years of dating?Aside from the controversy, Benn has contributed little to the series, tallying just one assist in five games. In 13 playoff games overall, he’s logged only one goal and three total points. With Game 6 set for Saturday night in Dallas, all eyes will be on whether Benn’s antics continue—or if the league’s light punishment has emboldened him further.