The NHL confirmed a goal that deflected in off the skate of Colorado Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews.
Toews scored to tie the Avs’ game against the Seattle Kraken at 3-3.
The NHL reviewed the play. Contrary to what the broadcast crew said, teams cannot challenge for a kicked-in goal. Those are automatically reviewed by the league.
“After review, it was a deflection off the blue player,” announced referee Steve Kozari. “We have a good goal.”
Here’s the rule, which is covered in 37.4 and 49.2:
Plays that involve a puck entering the net as a direct result of a “distinct kicking motion” shall be ruled NO GOAL. A “distinct kicking motion,” for purposes of Video Review, is
one where the video makes clear that an attacking Player has deliberately propelled the puck with a kick of his foot or skate and the puck subsequently enters the net. A goal cannot be scored on a play where an attacking Player propels the puck with his skate into the net (even by means of a subsequent deflection off of another Player) using a “distinct kicking motion.”
A puck that deflects into the net off an attacking Player’s skate who does not use a “distinct kicking motion” shall be ruled a GOAL. A puck that is directed into the net by an attacking Players’ skate shall also be ruled a GOAL, as long as no “distinct kicking motion” is evident.
Toews clearly turned his skate in an attempt to deflect the puck towards the goal. This is legal, and this play was consistent with how the NHL has interpreted the rule regarding kicked-in goals. Intentionally directing the puck in is legal. Swinging kicks that propel the puck in are not.
Colorado went on to win the game 4-3.
Referees were Steve Kozari (#40) and Francois St. Laurent (#8). Linesmen were Shandor Alphonso (#52) and Bryan Pancich (#94).
