In a social media exchange on Monday, Chuck Hellebuyck, father of Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, expressed his frustration over a controversial goalie interference call.
Taking to X/Twitter, Chuck shared his thoughts after tuning in late to see a replay of the incident. He wrote:
"I tuned in late to see this on replay. Geekie #14 lifts his pad with his stick and then pushes his pad into the net, never touching the puck, then falls on him and that’s not goalie interference?! Come on! Go @NHLJets !"
Former NHLer Ryan Whitney responded to Chuck's post with a snarky remark, saying:
"Chuck no one has a clue what is or isn’t a goal when goaltender interference is involved. Don’t worry about it just flip a coin next time."
The situation arose after a controversial goal by Brandon Hagel stood during the first period of the Jets' 7-4 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday. The Jets challenged the play for goaltender interference, but the league ruled that no infraction had taken place, citing Rule 69.7.
The debate and confusion surrounding the goalie interference calls in the NHL have continued to generate discussion among players, fans, and analysts alike.
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Connor Hellebuyck voices frustration with NHL goaltending rules
During an interview on Monday, Connor Hellebuyck reflected on his efforts over the past five years to assist in improving the goaltending rules explanation.
He emphasized that he has tried to clarify the issues, making them more straightforward, but is considering moving on if things don't change (via Score):
"I've tried my best to help over the last four or five years, and I'm getting to a point in my career where I'm a little more family-oriented," he said Monday. "If it's not going to get anywhere, I might have to move on to thexnext guy, pass it on. I've tried to help, I've tried to make it more black and white."
Connor Hellebuyck has been solid for the Jets this season. The 31-year-old has posted a 1-0 record and a .917 save percentage. Meanwhile, the Jets have shone brightly this season, leading the league with an 11-1-0 record and 22 points.
They'll face off against the Utah Hockey Club on Tuesday, with the puck dropping at 8 p.m. ET.