It’s not often that broadcasters openly call out NHL referees. But during Thursday’s game between the Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks, the Ducks’ broadcast crew had just about enough with one official—specifically, how he handled a faceoff.
Referee performance is always a topic of discussion in the NHL. Given how intense and physical the game is, and how many battles occur during every shift, officiating has always been a major talking point. However, it’s rare for commentators or broadcasters to directly criticize the officials during a game. But on Thursday, the Ducks’ broadcast seemed to reach its breaking point with linesman Trent Knorr—especially over one particular sequence.
With 19.3 seconds left in the game, the Flames were on a power play, holding a 4-1 lead. A Ducks comeback was virtually impossible, and all that was left was for the official to drop the puck for a faceoff in Calgary’s offensive zone.
Anaheim Ducks’ broadcast furious
Instead, Knorr pulled off not one, but two fake puck drops. First, he waved off Isac Lundeström after tricking him with a false start. Then, he did the exact same thing to Morgan Frost.
On the third attempt, the puck was finally dropped for real—but by then, the broadcast had seen enough. The crew openly criticized Knorr on-air, and their frustration quickly gained traction online.
Many fans on social media sided with the broadcasters, especially given how little time remained and the fact that the game was already decided.
“19 seconds left in a 4-1 game. Guy’s just doing too much,” one fan commented.
“Worst rule in hockey,” another added.
“He swears people are there to watch him drop pucks,” a third joked.
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