Connor McDavid Calls Out NHL After Overturned OT Goal Sparks Controversy

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Any hockey fans who’ve routinely tuned into NHL games in recent years are likely all too aware the league’s approach to offside calls leaves plenty to be desired. Video reviews centering around those infractions have been at the root of a ton of controversy, and we were treated to a fresh new batch on Thursday night.

The Oilers and the Blues needed overtime to settle things after wrapping up the third period tied at three goals apiece. It initially appeared Edmonton was able to net the game-winner when Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl did what they do best by expertly playing keep-away with the St. Louis defense before the latter tucked the puck away in the back of the net.

However, the powers that be in the NHL’s situation room in Toronto opted to take another look at the goal and ultimately overturned the call on the ice after determining the deke McDavid used to gain entry into the zone had put him offside.

That reversal didn’t sit well with plenty of Oilers fans who tried to compare McDavid’s move to the one Cale Makar successfully (albeit controversially) pulled off against Edmonton in the Stanley Cup Playoffs last year. With that said, it did appear to be the correct call; both of McDavid’s skates clearly cross the blue line before the puck did.

The decision to overturn the goal left a particularly sour taste in the mouths of the Edmonton faithful after the Blues walked away with two points by winning the shootout. McDavid also didn’t do much to hide his displeasure after the game, as he alluded to the Makar “incident” while calling out the NHL for its lack of inconsistency on offside calls (as well as those concerning a distinct kicking motion and goaltender interference).

It’s hard to argue with his larger point, although I’m not sure if the goal in question is the best example to use when it comes to highlighting questionable officiating. However, one thing is fairly certain: the Oilers superstar will probably be getting an early Christmas present in the form of the fine that’s probably coming his way.