The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 4–2 on Monday. But what really had fans buzzing was a Brandon Hagel dummy that Sabres fans set up before the game—one that passing fans were encouraged to hit and kick.
Both the Sabres and the Lightning are battling for first place in the Atlantic Division. When the two teams last met, the game turned heated, combining for a total of 102 penalty minutes.
READ MORE: Fans blast Brandon Hagel after Rasmus Dahlin clash
”Scumbag move”
During that matchup on March 8, Lightning forward Brandon Hagel targeted Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin, hitting him in the back of the head. Sabres fans called for Hagel to be suspended, with many labeling the play a “scumbag move.”
Monday’s game went in the Sabres’ favor, as they secured a 4–2 win. However, it wasn’t nearly as physical as the previous meeting, and Hagel did not play. Still, Sabres fans made sure to get their revenge in their own way.
Brandon Hagel punching bag
Before the game, fans set up a punching bag featuring a printed image of Hagel. On their way into the arena, many Sabres supporters stopped to punch or tackle it.
After the game, Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff shared his reaction to the viral moment.
“I saw a few clips before the game. People were punching the Hagel dummy on their way into the building. I just think that’s part of it. Everybody’s into it, and I think our fans have been waiting for this for a while,” Ruff told reporters.
Fans love it
Fans online also seemed to love the gesture.
“I’m f*cking dead, this is awesome,” one fan wrote on X.
“This may be the best rage bait I’ve ever seen,” another added.
“Freaking awesome,” a third chimed in.
You can watch the punching bag video below.
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