Leafs fans angry over NHL's explanation for failed challenge vs Jets

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Dawson Mckenzie
January 28, 2024 (4:56 PM)

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During last night's game, the Leafs failed a Coaches challenge for a questionable call on the ice, and fans are furious with the NHL's explanation of the call.

Tyler Bertuzzi gets goal taken away in questionable call

Tyler Bertuzzi has had terrible luck this season and hasn't been able to break that streak, either, as last night he had a goal seemingly taken from him. During the game, Bertuzzi potted a rebound only for it to be called back for goaltender interference by William Nylander.

The call on the ice was questionable, as Nylander was pushed into Hellebuyck, so the Leafs challenged the call. To the surprise of everyone on the broadcast, they lost the challenge and the call stood. Take a look for yourself.

Ultimately, many in the media and fans thought that this was the wrong call and were furious with the NHL for the decision.

NHL Gives Explanation to Ruling After Controversy

After the call was being debated online, the NHL came out with a statement on why the call was made, stating that the video review supported the call made on the ice by the Referee. Here is what they had to say.

Explanation:

Video review supported the Referee's call on the ice that Toronto's William Nylander impaired Connor Hellebuyck's ability to play his position in the crease. The decision was made in accordance with Rule 69.1 which states, in part, that "Goals should be disallowed only if: (1) an attacking player, either by his positioning or by contact, impairs the goalkeeper's ability to move freely within his crease or defend his goal."

This reasoning has left a lot to desire for fans, but either way, it didn't matter in the end. The Leafs were able to come out with another win over the red-hot Winnipeg Jets, and have silenced some of the criticisms they were facing heading into the All-Star break.

Do you agree with the call?

As seen on Maple Leafs Daily The NHL's explanation for the Leafs' failed coaches challenge was absolute nonsense