We all remember the backlash that the NFL received when the New Orleans Saints appeared to be in a pretty good position to advance to this year’s Super Bowl when a game-changing non-call shifted momentum in the direction of the eventual NFC Champs L.A. Rams.
In response, the NFL fined the culprit – Nickell Robey-Coleman - $26,739 for the uncalled hit. As Robey-Coleman admitted, it was the best money he ever spent. The Saints players would pay a lot more than that for a shot at football’s most coveted trophy.
Well, get ready for Round 2. This time, it’s the hockey edition!
The Vegas Golden Knights and San Jose Sharks had battled their way to a thrilling Game 7 series. Early in the game, Vegas took a lead that it didn’t look like it would relinquish. With approximately half a period to play, the Golden Knights held a 3-0 lead over the Sharks and looked to be set for a berth in round two.
Then it happened. The cross-check heard around the hockey world. After a faceoff, Cody Eakin cross-checked Joe Pavelski, who then was bumped into and fell awkwardly, leaving his head leaking blood.
The call on the ice was that Eakin was to serve a 5-minute major and a game misconduct for a cross-check resulting in major injury. While many hopped to the defence of the officials, the league has come out and apologized to the Vegas Golden Knights for making the wrong call.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t really matter. The Golden Knights were ousted as a result of four power-play goals from the Sharks. It was enough to send the game into OT where the Sharks eventually won it. \
How do you think the internet reacted to the NHL’s eventual apology? Were they warm, receptive, and understanding? Well, some of it. Some of it not so much…
What do you think? Let us know @BarDown!
