Things got, well, somewhat heated between defenceman Mark Pysyk and forward Jeff Skinner during last night’s Florida Panthers vs Carolina Hurricanes game.
The two engaged in some unfriendly conduct midway through the second period when Skinner began chirping his opponent after the whistle. It appeared as though he gave Pysyk a very subtle fake cross-check, based on the position in which he was holding his stick.
Hardly phased by what previously took place, Pysyk mocked Skinner with a fake cross check of his own, while rocking a smile that could be seen ear-to-ear. Skinner was having none of it and proceeded to give his opponent a classic face wash with his glove.
Neither player was awarded a penalty from the altercation, but Skinner ended up with the last laugh after putting the Canes up 2-1 in the third period. Panthers forward Alex Barkov would tie the game with less than two minutes left, but Hurrcanes defenceman Noah Hanifin managed to score in overtime with just two seconds left in the extra frame.
Gregg Forwerck/NHLI via Getty Images
The altercation was just another classic moment when two players failed to control their emotions. On Friday night, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Bryan Rust exploded on Evander Kane in the penalty box after each player received a roughing penalty late in the third period.
We’ve even witnessed a player actually engage in a little chirping session with an opposing fan.
Neither Pysysk or Skinner are regarded as particularily tough players, but every skater loses their cool once in a while. All was good for Skinner after the game, as the 25-year-old was named the game’s second star in the victory.
(H/T r/Hockey)
