Nigel's great, but most rugby referees are very similar, even if slightly less competent. They call something, they explain the rule, and you move on. If you don't move on, you get kicked out, basically, so it's very very easy to get with the program!
One of the beefs I have with the NHL is how reluctant they are to call 2 things: one is intent to injure, and the other is unsportsmanlike conduct. They hardly ever use 'em.
If the ref in a rugby game deems you unsportsmanlike, you are most likely sitting that game.
Anyway, there's a big discrepancy between rugby and hockey, I'm not suggesting I have a cure all here, I'm just saying "Look, this technology exists, it's implemented pretty seamlessly elsewhere, and to good effect." Surely the NHL could do SOMETHING to negate these absolutely brutal calls. I didn't get the feeling Nigel Owens felt threatened or submarined by having that spotter call down to him. It's... easy.
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