Detroit Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde blasts the NHL for poor officiating
Following the 5-4 loss by the Detroit Red Wings to the New Jersey Devils, head coach Derek Lalonde is taking the National Hockey League officiating to task after a controversial video review went against them.
The poor penalty killing of the Detroit Red Wings did them no favors this afternoon against the New Jersey Devils at Little Caesars Arena.
The Devils avenged their loss to the Red Wings from last month, defeating Detroit 5-4 thanks to three power play goals.
But it was New Jersey's first power play goal of the night that drew Detroit's ire not only for how it was scored, but the fact that it withstood a lengthy video review with the NHL's so-called War Room in Toronto.
In no uncertain terms, Lalonde gave the NHL a piece of his mind.
The [officials'] explanation was that Talbot initiated the contact, even though he was in the crease and their player was not, Talbot initiated the contact.
I appreciate the explanation, but maybe it's time for some artificial intelligence on goalie interferences and they should take all the calls, because I'm a little baffled by that one. Unfortunately it was a pretty big turning point.
New Jersey defenseman Dougie Hamilton beat goaltender Cam Talbot (who was playing in his 500th career game) just nine seconds after Detroit's Justin Holl was whistled for hooking.
Lalonde issued a coach's challenge as the replay indicated New Jersey's Stefan Noesen interfered with Talbot's ability to cleanly play his position.
Despite a lengthy review, the goal was upheld, and Detroit was assessed another penalty for delay of game due to the failed challenge; the Devils scored again seconds later to tie the game.
They eventually won 5-4 despite trailing 2-0 and 3-2.
| POLL | ||
Do you agree with Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde that the NHL got the call incorrect? | ||
| Yes, it was the wrong call! | 104 | 84.6 % |
| No, the officials made the right call. | 19 | 15.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
