OPINION | The Controversy of the 2018-19 NHL Playoffs: Inconsistent Officiating Affecting Outcomes

The NHL brings joy to hockey fans around the world, but much like any other major sporting competition, it needs refereeing. That issue has been a contentious one throughout this season, and it could be under greater scrutiny when correct calls matter most, in the playoffs.

While there are no Canadian teams left standing in this year’s competition (despite there still being cause for optimism for Habs supporters), the most knowledgeable fans live in the country, and fans have been quick to point out missed calls and possible changes that need to be made ahead of next season. But, which are the most obvious calls that have been missed during this season?

St. Louis Blues vs San Jose Sharks

In our opinion, not many teams have benefited as much from poor calls than the San Jose Sharks this playoff season. Not only did they receive a dubious decision in their series win over the Vegas Golden Knights, but in Game Three of their crucial matchup against the St. Louis Blues, they benefited once again by a missed call. In a thrilling game, the Sharks led 2-0 before falling behind 4-3 in a pulsating third period only to find an equaliser to force overtime. What transpired next was beyond believable to many fans.

On a quick break up the ice, the puck was hand passed by Timo Meier as Erik Karlsson fired a shot past the Blues goalkeeper. The goal was awarded as the on-ice officials did not see the hand pass. The Sharks players left the ice after the goal was awarded, while the Blues sat tight hoping for a reversal. But a hand pass is a not a reviewable play and the goal was allowed to stand.

Some fans argue, that at such a critical point of the season, video review is necessary on all scoring plays regardless of the time that is needed.

Washington Capitals vs Carolina Hurricanes

In Game Two of the opening round series between the Washington Capitals and the Carolina Hurricanes, it was tense, as both teams looked to gain an advantage in the series. However, it’s our view that the officials were too harsh when assessing a five-minute major and game misconduct to Michael Ferland. The incident itself was contentious, especially when you consider that the Capitals’ player was leaning into Ferland, with his head making contact with Ferland’s back.

The Hurricanes’ Rob Brind’Armour was furious with the decision and lamented the call for the entirety of the contest. After the game the Canes head coach expressed his frustration with the officials for their inability to take into account how the contact took place. Instead, the officials reacted to an incident that didn’t look pretty in live action. The Hurricanes were made to pay for this decision as they lost Game Two 4-3.

Boston Bruins vs Columbus Blue Jackets

We contend that this series was littered with poor officiating, and this was on display especially in Game Four. The Blue Jackets’ opening goal of the game shouldn’t have stood due to the puck hitting the netting and returning to play. Seconds later, Artemi Panarin put the puck into the Bruins net.

The officials should have blown the play dead as soon as the puck went out of the playing surface. They didn’t, and the goal stood.

Fast forward to two hotly-contested matchups between the teams. A vital moment in the NHL season for the Blue Jackets occurred in Game Six. The Bruins best defenseman Charlie McAvoy delivered an ugly looking blow to the head of Josh Anderson, yet was only given a two-minute minor.

To many, the infraction was worthy of a much more severe punishment. The blown call enabled the Bruins to hang on and win the series 4-2. Since then the Bruins have gone on to be the -137.50 (as of May 17th) Betway favourites to end the season as the Stanley Cup winners.

One thing is for sure, on-going assessment of NHL officiating, including video review, is necessary to ensure that correct decisions are made for the sake of teams and hockey fans.