Sens' Tkachuk goes at Hischier for post-buzzer goal
Brady Tkachuk got upset with Nico Hischier for sliding a puck into an empty net after time expired, two months after reveling in watching a teammate take a slap shot into an open cage.
The Ottawa Senators captain took issue when his New Jersey Devils counterpart guided the puck into the empty net with time having already run out in the Metropolitan Division squad's 4-3 win Saturday night.
Hischier carried the puck into the Devils' defensive zone just as the clock ran down to zero. He then skated toward the net and slid the puck in before leaving the scene. Tkachuk immediately expressed disbelief and went right after Hischier, causing a line brawl to break out.
Well that's one way to close out a hockey game. pic.twitter.com/4jEtaepgXy
- Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 7, 2024
Here's another look at what Tkachuk was upset about.
Empty nets bring everyone together. pic.twitter.com/s8YUInNHcs
- Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 7, 2024
In February, Tkachuk's teammate, Ridly Greig, took a slap shot into an empty net that incensed Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly. The blue-liner cross-checked Greig in the face in retaliation, and the NHL ultimately suspended the rearguard for five games.
Tkachuk seemed to enjoy Greig's actions - before Rielly took exception to them.
"I'm not going to lie to you," Tkachuk said at the time. "I was crying laughing until the cross-check happened, and then the wires crossed a little bit. So, you know what? If you know (Greig), and I hope a lot of people get to know him, he's one of the best guys around."
Ottawa's loss on Saturday night officially eliminated the club from playoff contention.
Tkachuk's 34th goal of the season cut New Jersey's lead to 4-3 with 5:43 to go in the third period.
The Senators and Devils won't meet again until next season.
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