Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane was frustrated.  With his team trailing 3-0 midway through the third period of Tuesday night’s game against the Nashville Predators, Kane was called for hooking Preds defenseman Matt Irwin.

He took a moment to vent his frustrations at the ref.

As referee Kendrick Nicholson announced the penalty, Kane offered some choice words to the official.  (Warning: language)

 

 

Nicholson was having none of it.  He didn’t miss a beat in announcing the original penalty — or the additional two-minute minor.

“Chicago, 88, minor penalty, hooking”, Nicholson relayed, immediately tacking on the extra call after a quick glance at Kane. “Chicago, 88, minor penalty, unsportsmanlike conduct!”

The NHL rulebook covers abusive language directed towards officials in Rule 39:

39.2 Minor Penalty – A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct shall be assessed under this rule for the following infractions:
(ii) Any identifiable player who uses obscene, profane or abusive language or gestures directed at any on or off-ice official.

If such language is not directed at an official, it’s covered in Rule 75, though with similar language:

75.2 Minor Penalty – A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct shall be assessed under this rule for the following infractions:
(i) Any identifiable player who uses obscene, profane or abusive language or gestures directed at any person

Both instances also require the officials follow-up with the league, per 39.6 and 75.6:

It is the responsibility of all game officials and all club officials to send a confidential report to the Commissioner setting out the full details concerning the use of obscene gestures or language by any player, Coach or non-playing Club personnel. The Commissioner shall take such further disciplinary action as he shall deem appropriate.

If you though the ref was annoyed by Kane’s outburst, just wait until he has to go fill out extra paperwork…

Referees for the game were Kendrick Nicholson (#30) and Jon McIsaac (#2). Linesmen were Devin Berg (#87) and David Brisebois (#96).