In a stunning twist following the heated clash between the Montreal Canadiens and the Carolina Hurricanes, NHL referees have officially declared Kaiden Guhle’s game-winning goal as invalid. The controversial decision has sent shockwaves through the hockey world and prompted calls for the match to be replayed in full.
The game, which ended in a narrow 3-2 victory for the Canadiens, saw defenseman Kaiden Guhle score what was believed to be the deciding goal late in the third period. However, upon further review and post-game deliberations, match officials revealed that the goal should not have stood due to an uncalled offside in the lead-up to the play.
According to the referees’ joint statement, new video angles showed a clear violation that was missed during the game. After reviewing footage post-match, it has become evident that the play leading to Guhle’s goal was offside and should have been blown dead, the statement read. In the interest of fairness and integrity, we recommend the game be replayed.
Both teams have expressed strong reactions. The Canadiens organization has voiced disappointment, calling the ruling “unprecedented,” while the Hurricanes have welcomed the decision, emphasizing the importance of officiating accuracy in critical games.
The NHL has yet to confirm whether the match will officially be replayed, but league officials are reportedly in urgent meetings to determine the appropriate course of action. If approved, this would mark one of the rare instances in modern NHL history where a game is replayed due to an officiating error.
Fans and analysts alike are divided, with some praising the move toward accountability and others concerned about setting a controversial precedent.
The hockey world now waits for the NHL’s final ruling
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