Nick Suzuki penalty sparks controversy as new footage questions Canada’s disallowed Olympic goal
Photo credit: All Montreal Hockey
Canada’s debut at the Milan Olympic Games was marked by a controversial officiating decision involving Nick Suzuki.
The Montreal Canadiens captain saw one of his key plays wiped out by officials during the matchup against Czechia.
Everything had seemed to be working perfectly on the offensive unit rounded out by Nathan MacKinnon.
Nick Suzuki orchestrated a precise sequence, sliding the puck over to the Colorado Avalanche star, who quickly buried it behind the opposing goaltender.
The celebration was short-lived, however, as the referees immediately disallowed the goal. Nick Suzuki was escorted to the penalty box for tripping, a decision that sparked outrage among Canadian fans.
A new camera angle, broadcast shortly after the incident, suggests the contact was unintentional. It shows number 14’s stick getting tangled in the opponent’s skates as he began driving toward the net.
The penalty proved costly for Team Canada, denying the squad an early lead in this international tournament. Nick Suzuki finished the first period with no goals and a 0 differential.
Obvious chemistry despite the controversy
Despite the technical setback, Nick Suzuki’s usage alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Brandon Hagel confirms his status among the elite.
The Canadiens center brings a vision of the game that complements the speed of his wingers.
In 57 NHL games this season, Nick Suzuki has produced 65 points. His adjustment to the international style of play will be one of the key storylines for Claude Julien’s squad in the coming stages of the competition.
Canada will now need to tighten its discipline to ensure similar sequences do not impact the outcome of elimination games.
That said, they currently hold a 3–0 lead after two periods, and Nick Suzuki remains a central piece of the strategy despite his first difficult trip to the penalty box.
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Nick Suzuki penalty sparks controversy as new footage questions Canada’s disallowed Olympic goal
Should Nathan MacKinnon’s goal have counted based on the new footage
