Merzlikins defends costly clash with Wilson: He was trying to hurt me
Columbus Blue Jackets netminder Elvis Merzlikins accused Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson of attempting to injure him during Thursday's contest.
The two players got into a fight in overtime.
We got a big ol' fight! #CBJ pic.twitter.com/u7PuX1iJYm
- Bally Sports Columbus (@BallySportsCBUS) December 22, 2023
Here's a look at what started the kerfuffle.
ELVIS MERZLIKINS vs. TOM WILSON pic.twitter.com/rX6W41IQRV
- Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) December 22, 2023
Merzlikins believes it wasn't an isolated incident.
"He slew-footed me (on the) very first shift. He was after me all game long. I was trying to grab my stick. I got punched in the head. Before that I'm pretty sure he was trying to get me hurt," Merzlikins said postgame, per Bally Sports Columbus. "I was just trying to get my stick. I got punched. Enough. I'm gonna defend myself."
Wilson does carry a reputation, as he's been suspended five times for a total of 30 games over his 11-year career, but none since 2021.
"I don't think any other player (on) their team would try to hurt me. Watch the replay. He was going straight at my knee. ... He got what he deserved. I don't care," Merzlikins said. "Seriously, I could be out (for) the season. He was going straight at my knee with full speed. I get it, he was driving the net, I get it, but he could've avoided me. A lot of players avoid goalies."
Merzlikins was handed a roughing minor for his role in the scuffle, while Wilson was not penalized. Alex Ovechkin ended up scoring the OT winner on the ensuing power play to end a 14-game goalless drought.
The Capitals' social media team had some fun with the incident afterward.
HANG IT IN THE LOUVRE pic.twitter.com/yCwmtKF9P0
- Washington Capitals (@Capitals) December 22, 2023
Blue Jackets head coach Pascal Vincent condemned his goaltender for his actions.
"That incident cost us. We have to control our emotions there," Vincent said. "It's disappointing."
Merzlikins has posted a .909 save percentage and 3.17 goals-against average in 21 games this season for the Blue Jackets, who sit last in the Metropolitan Division.
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