Tortorella Would Challenge Again Despite Loss
If given another chance, John Tortorella would make the same call again.
The coach of the Golden Knights contested referee Jean Hebert’s decision during a pivotal moment in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals. This occurred when it seemed that Ivan Barbashev had inadvertently shoved Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen into the net. The challenge happened with just five minutes remaining in regulation, but it did not change the outcome, as Carolina ultimately triumphed 4-3 in overtime.
“I saw the puck just sitting there in front of Freddie,” Tortorella mentioned. “My player didn’t touch the goalie but went right through him to score. I’d challenge that every single time.”
The key call allowed Las Vegas to take a temporary 3-2 lead, only for Carolina to respond with three consecutive goals within five minutes, all during a power play, which shifted the momentum back in their favor.
NHL executive vice president Stephen Walkom provided some insight into the ruling, saying to Pool reporters, “The play was deemed goaltender interference. Hebert waved it off immediately, believing the puck was underneath the goalie while Las Vegas players interfered with his ability to freeze it.”
With just over a minute left in regulation, Vegas’ Mark Stone managed to backhand a goal past Andersen, leading to overtime. However, Carolina’s Seth Jarvis fired a slap shot past goaltender Carter Hart early in the extra period, clinching the victory.
“Every time we get a power play, we aim to capitalize,” Hurricanes forward Sebastian Aho commented. “So, although it was a significant swing, our approach remained consistent.”
Tortorella, who stepped in as coach of Vegas just eight games before the end of the regular season after Bruce Cassidy’s unexpected firing, stands by his decisions. He has been at the helm of six NHL teams and previously celebrated a Stanley Cup win with the Lightning in 2004.
“I got the explanation from the league, and I still support my choice,” Tortorella stated on Friday.
