Former NHL Players Call Out League For Terrible Officiating In Key Moment

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Graham Montgomery
January 29, 2024 (12:50)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs had a big game last night against the Winnipeg Jets. While they were ultimately able to come out with the 4-2 victory, it could have been an easier contest for the team as the referees took away a goal on a very controversial call.

Referees Make Highly Questionable Goalie Interference Call Against Leafs

The call came in the dying seconds of the first period just after the Leafs had tied the game. Tyler Bertuzzi appeared to score, giving the Leafs the lead, but the referees waived the goal off for goalie interference.

Tyler Bertuzzi absolutely robbed of a goal due to goalie interference.
This is a goal so stupid.
Bertuzzi's goals called back streak hits 2 games now

The call lead to many fans calling out the officials as it seems as though it is objectively the wrong call. In fact, former NHL players and analysts have weighed in on the side of most fans, who thought the goal should count.

Bieksa And Hrudey Call Out NHL Referees After Bad Goalie Interference Call

Former NHL players Kevin Bieksa and Kelly Hrudey discussed the play on Sportsnet. Both players seemed to agree with fans that this goal should have counted. The players focused on the fact that Jets defenseman Dylan DeMelo pushed Nylander into Hellebuyck, negating the interference.

"It's the wrong call in my opinion. I thought that DeMelo clearly pushed Nylander into Hellebuyck and so I think this is a goal that should count. I'm kind of surprised in fact." - Kelly Hrudey

"Clearly he was pushed after and that's where the contact originated... I'm confused about this as well Kel."- Kevin Bieksa

There discussion focuses on one part of the goalie interference rule that clearly states if a player is pushed into the other team's goalie by a player on the defending team, then that contact will not be considered as interference.

Based on the rule as written, it seems pretty clear that this goal should have counted. Luckily, the call did not have an impact on the outcome of the game.

As seen on Kevin Bieksa and Kelly Hrudey call out the NHL's officiating.