After watching that multiple times I still think that the ref got it right on the non call with Hedman. I agree that there has been calls for less and consistency has not been there, but in live speed it did not look as though there was enough of a wrap up.
As for the player being injured with a shot up high before the goal. No whistle obviously because CBJ did not touch the puck following.
Either way, that was a hell of a hockey game and hats off to all the players for that. I agree with everyone else that I couldn't imagine how they are feeling this AM. It's going to be hard to follow up that marathon tomorrow, but I know that I'll be watching
Thoughts on modifying the OT format to prevent marathon games like this one? Or does everyone like this on the rare occasion it happens.
I don't want to go to shoot out but might be open to something like:
1st OT played 5v5
2nd OT played 4v4
3rd and subsequent OT played 3v3
I think most OT games are resolved in the first session anyway (?)
Games that go to the 3rd OT are usually a kiss of death for both teams in a series. Playing that long does so much damage to the players bodies that it's a setback you just can't recover from in a tight playoff schedule.
Too much OT is a lousy reason to miss out on a cup, but there a lot of other teams are going to have their hearts broken for lousy reasons and I don't think you can remedy the OT situation without significantly diminishing the integrity of the playoffs.
I would not be against modified OT to reduce these marathons, but I would like it to stop at 4v4. I think that that keeps the integrity and strategy and it's not a simple run and gun. More ice which allows for more action. In the end though, anything is fine as long as the shootout never comes into play. Regular season or playoffs, get rid of the shootout!
The Quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little, and it will fail, to the ruin of all. Yet hope remains while the Company is true. Go Flames Go!
