Don Cherry slams Stanley Cup Final refs after controversial Game 2: 'The worst I've ever seen'
(Elsa/Getty Images)
If Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final taught us anything, it's this: the Florida Panthers vs. Edmonton Oilers isn't just a hockey series, it's a full-on warzone. But this time, it wasn't just the players throwing hits.
The refs are catching strays, and none louder than the one fired by Don Cherry. The legendary hockey voice called it the 'worst refereed game I've ever seen,' and judging by the internet, he's far from alone.
Don Cherry slams Game 2 refs as Oilers fans erupt over Sam Bennett controversy
Hockey Night in Canada icon Don Cherry may be off TV these days, but his opinions still slap harder than a playoff check. In a podcast segment, Cherry absolutely torched the refs in Game 2 of the Panthers-Oilers Final, calling their performance 'embarrassing' and 'a joke.'
He specifically tore into the refs for letting the game get out of hand, accusing them of being inconsistent and letting too much dirty play slide. For Cherry, who's seen a lot of hockey, this game stood out for all the wrong reasons.
The Sam Bennett no-call that's breaking Oilers fans' brains
The moment that really sent Edmonton fans into meltdown mode? A blatant-looking interference by Panthers forward Sam Bennett. During a critical sequence, Bennett leveled an Oiler without the puck, a clear violation in most NHL games but the refs just didn't call it.
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Cue the chaos.
X was instantly flooded with angry breakdowns and fan edits questioning the league's standards. '
Tkachuk patted Bennett for almost injuring Skinner. Florida players get away with too much. Dirty play wins in the game and in life unfortunately.'
one fan posted. Another joked, '
The ongoing story of the McDavid era.'
Even analysts were stunned the play didn't result in a penalty, especially since it led to a scoring chance moments later. Panthers fans, on the other hand? Silent as the refs' whistles.
With Game 3 looming, tensions are sky-high. Will the refs rein it in? Will another Bennett-style hit go ignored? And how long until someone completely loses it on the ice?
Also read -
5 things you didn't know about Seth Jones — the Florida Panthers' playoff beast
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