Almost a year after the Islanders faced a controversial goaltender interference call against Kyle Palmieri, leading to a downward spiral in their season, they found themselves once again on the receiving end of a similar questionable ruling against the Blue Jackets.
On Sunday, the Islanders managed to secure a 1-0 victory over the Blue Jackets, but the discussion around the game quickly shifted to a goal that was disallowed. It seems the team will likely seek clarification from the league regarding why Bo Horvat’s goal at 12:06 in the third period was nullified due to interference after Columbus challenged the call.
Horvat’s shot, originating from the top right circle, was deflected by Jett Greaves. The puck then landed in front of a speeding Anders Lee. As Mathieu Olivier lunged at Lee, both ended up in the crease, and the puck just slipped away from Olivier.
Lee later mentioned that after a lengthy review, referee Frédéric L’Equier concluded that the Islanders captain had entered the crease alone, which justified the interference call.
“I was definitely trying to break out,” Lee pointed out.
He noted that while Olivier was indeed pushing himself into him, he added that the video seemed to tell a different story.
“It definitely helped me moving forward,” Lee commented, adding, “I don’t stand behind the internet for no reason.”
Coach Patrick Roy seemed hesitant to delve into the specifics, but he did express that he found the reasoning behind the call hard to believe.
“They said Anders went in alone. We think differently, but that’s our opinion,” Roy remarked. “And, why was Olivier so upset? He knew he pushed Anders into the net and had a hand in putting the puck in as well.” He then seemed to want to shift subjects. “But goalie interference, can we just change the topic?”
Both Ryan Pulock and Anthony Duclair are currently dealing with lower-body injuries and are listed as day-to-day.
With Pulock sidelined, the Islanders had to adjust their long-standing defensive pairings. Adam Pelech was moved from his usual spot, teaming up with Matthew Schaefer, while Tony DeAngelo partnered with Carson Soucy. DeAngelo logged 18 minutes and 55 seconds of ice time, marking his longest appearance since joining the Islanders.
Adam Boqvist also returned to the lineup for the second time since early March, skating for 12 minutes and 3 seconds, and contributing with his second assist of the season on Horvat’s goal.
