Chicago Blackhawks fans were left absolutely furious after referees assessed a major penalty for Philipp Kurashev on Thursday’s matchup with the Buffalo Sabres.
The incident happened in the third period, as Erik Johnson had the puck behind the Sabres’ net.
Kurashev came skating for the fore-check, and as he was getting ready to lay a hit on Johnson, his opponent suddenly turned his back against him, leading to him losing balance and slamming into the boards.
Johnson had to leave the game after the hit, and Kurashev’s action resulted in a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct.
Although everyone’s agreed that the NHL needs to take action, handing out suspensions on dangerous hits, many were furious with the refs’ call on Thursday.
The officials quickly reacted to the play, and they didn’t change their decision after reviewing it.
But on social media, many claimed that it was Johnson’s responsibility not to turn his back on the hitter.
”NHL needs to fix how they call these intentional back turning maneuvers. It’s gutless as f—k by the puck carrier,” one said on X, formerly Twitter.
”Not a major, Kurashev was already committed to the check and Johnson turned his back to him. It’s just as much on Kurashev as it is on Johnson to protect himself,” another said.
”Lol defensemen need to quit turning such a bail out move,” a third added.
”Why is he trying to turn back up the wall instead of continuing his path around the net,” a fourth said.
What’s your take on this?
