Nick Suzuki reacts to controversial non-call that led to Wild’s overtime winner
Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
Captain Nick Suzuki issued an official statement regarding the controversial sequence that directly led to the Wild’s game-winning goal last night.
The overtime loss leaves a bitter taste, especially given the nature of the decisive play.
We’re talking here about the zone entry where Joel Eriksson Ek clearly and deliberately blocked the path of the Canadiens’ No. 14.
Official statement from Nick Suzuki after the game regarding the NHL officials’ mistake on the game-winning goal
Suzuki didn’t mince words when describing his perspective of the play in the locker room.
He explained that he was skating backward to cover the defensive zone and that he was clearly impeded.
Habs captain Nick Suzuki on the non-penalty call in OT:
"I’m skating backwards for the whole entry zone. I get kinda picked but I guess the ref saw it differently."
- via HabsOnReddit
"I’m skating backwards for the whole entry zone. I get kinda picked but I guess the ref saw it differently."
- via HabsOnReddit
It’s a statement that clearly implies a penalty should have been called.
Journalist Nicolas Cloutier also pointed out the inconsistency of the situation on social media.
He specifically wondered how the captain is supposed to follow his check when an opponent executes an NBA-style "pick and roll" at the blue line.
It’s frustrating to see such a tight game decided by an interpretation from the officials.
Effort should determine the outcome, not a subtle obstruction that slips under the radar.
Nick Suzuki reflects on the ignored obstruction in overtime against the Montreal Canadiens
In today’s hockey, especially at 3-on-3, space is a rare and valuable commodity.
Eriksson Ek used that gray area of the rulebook to free up his teammate, and the plan worked perfectly for the Wild.
Suzuki isn’t known for complaining unnecessarily to officials, which gives even more weight to his version of events.
When the Canadiens’ quiet leader says he was blocked, it’s fair to assume the contact was real.
That non-call unfortunately sealed the outcome of the game instantly.
The team will have to move on, but this sequence will likely serve as an example in officiating meetings.
Also read on Montreal Hockey Fanatics :
Clear missed penalty on Suzuki has Habs fans fuming after Hutson got called for the same phantom play
Clear missed penalty on Suzuki has Habs fans fuming after Hutson got called for the same phantom play
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics