Goaltender interference is a toss-up call in the NHL. Much like the NFL’s “what is a catch?” debate, no one really knows how referees will rule on goaltender interference in any given game.
Unfortunately for the Detroit Red Wings, the goaltender interference debacle hit them hard on Tuesday during their game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. In a crucial moment in the middle of the second period, the Penguins tied the game 3-3 on the power play after Jeff Carter redirected the puck in over the line with Jason Zucker tying up goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic in front.
Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde challenged the play for goaltender interference, but ultimately came up short as the officials ruled it a good goal. While Lalonde’s reaction wasn’t audible on the broadcast, you don’t need to be good at lip reading to understand what he was saying.
Derek Lalonde didn't agree with the outcome of the Red Wings coaches challenge for goaltender interference. 😶 pic.twitter.com/LYMKfMocOu
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) March 29, 2023
Lalonde was even tossed from the game after that expletive-laden reaction to the goaltender interference challenge!
Honestly, I get where Lalonde is coming from. I’ve seen goaltender interference called for less many times over the years and Zucker was right up in Nedeljkovic’s face digging at his pads.
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Whether or not this was the right call, the NHL has to be more consistent in ruling on goaltender interference or we may get more reactions like Lalonde’s in the future.
