There was absolutely a distinct kicking motion on the play – as confirmed by the refs and the Situation Room – but this was 100% a legal goal.
Edmonton Oilers forward Evander Kane was awarded the game-tying goal in Game 3 against the Los Angeles Kings after video review confirmed that he played the puck with his stick after kicking it.
The puck crossed the line with no signal from referee Frederick L’Ecuyer. He discussed the play with linesman Jesse Marquis and the other officials before making an announcement:
“The call on the ice is no goal due to a distinct kicking motion, but the play will be under review.”
Reviews confirmed that Kane did, in fact, kick the puck forward. He was able to play the puck with his stick before it crossed the goal line, rendering it a legal goal.
This play falls under Rule 49.2:
Kicking the puck shall be permitted in all zones. A goal cannot be scored by an attacking player who uses a distinct kicking motion to propel the puck into the net with his skate/foot. … The following should clarify deflections following a kicked puck that enters the goal:
(ii) A kicked puck that deflects off the stick of any player (excluding the goalkeeper’s stick) shall be ruled a good goal.
(iii) A goal will be allowed when an attacking player kicks the puck and the puck deflects off his own stick and then into the net.
L’Ecuyer broke the good news to the hometown fans: the goal counts, the game is tied 4-4.
Of course, we weren’t quite done with the reviews. Once the goal was confirmed, the Los Angeles Kings challenged for goaltender interference.
Things didn’t go quite as well for LA on that Coach’s Challenge.
