NHL rules analyst explains why the Flames controversial kicking goal was overturned
NHL rules analyst Don Koharski joined the NHL on TNT panel to discuss why the Calgary Flames' late go-ahead goal was overturned for a «distinct kicking motion» after review. He discussed the play with former NHLers Paul Bissonette, Rick Tocchet and Henrik Lundqvist.
Koharksi gave a possible explanation for why it was overturned:
»His left leg is almost bent, his knee, and when he extends his leg out to hit the puck and continues to propel the puck across the goal-line and into the net. That's the determining factor. That's the distinct kicking motion I think the league should change the wordage of the rule because it's very confusing. We break it down too much.»
Don Koharski began as a linesman in the NHL in 1977 and as a referee in 1980. He retired in 2009 after officiating 1,719 regular-season games and 248 playoff games. Obviously, NHL referees and the video room workers in Toronto know more about the rules and what constitutes a kicking motion in this case or in the many controversial goaltender interference plays.
Watch the goal that was overturned again here:
Does Koharski make a good point about why it was overturned? Clearly, the NHL should describe rules better to fans and most importantly their own players.
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