Game 1 of the series between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers was full of intensity, and Game 2 proved to be no different.
During the second period of Wednesday`s game, Florida Panthers forward Evan Rodrigues was driven face-first into the boards following a significant hit from behind delivered by Toronto Maple Leafs forward Scott Laughton.
Laughton was assessed a four-minute penalty for roughing as a result of the play. However, Rodrigues also received a penalty on the same sequence, being given a two-minute minor for embellishment by the referee.
Rodrigues briefly left the ice and headed to the team`s dressing room, seemingly injured from the impact, but he was able to return to the game shortly thereafter.
Following the contest, Panthers head coach Paul Maurice indicated that he did not receive any explanation from the officials regarding their decision to call embellishment on Rodrigues.
The NHL Rulebook, specifically Rule 64.1, defines embellishment as any instance where a player “blatantly dives, embellishes a fall or reaction or who feigns an injury.”
Despite Rodrigues appearing shaken by the hit and needing medical attention, the officials evidently concluded that his reaction met the criteria for embellishment under the rule. This call, however, was met with widespread disagreement and strong negative reactions from fans watching the game.
