Chris Tanev responds to Connor McDavid's comments about dangerous play during Monday's game

Following Monday's 4-3 win over the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers captain called out Chris Tanev over a 'dangerous play' about halfway through the third period. The incident was similar to one between then-Flames captain Mark Giordano and McDavid, which cause the Oilers captain to suffer a torn PCL, torn meniscus, and a crack in his tibia back in April 2019.

"Obviously they have a right to defend their net and defend me trying to get in there, but when the stick kind of comes into the feet there like Tanev's did, it's a dangerous play for me and for the goalie," said McDavid. "I don't want to go flying in there, the goalie doesn't want me to go flying in there. You think you'd like to see that called a little bit more. It protects the guy driving the net."

On Thursday, Flames defenceman Chris Tanev responded to McDavid's comments and said that he's not a dirty player, and would never intend to hurt anyone. He added that he was trying to play the puck prior to the collision.

«He's on a partial breakaway, I'm trying to get the puck and it's obviously unfortunate he gets tripped up and goes into the goalie," Tanev said.

He went on to add, "Anyone who has watched me play knows I'm a pretty honest player," said Tanev. "I take maybe three or four minors a year. I don't think I'm going out there trying to hurt people. I'm trying to play the puck. I hit the puck with my stick. He's trying to jump over me as well... it's unfortunate."

The Oilers and Flames will meet for the first time in the 2021-22 season next Saturday at 10pm ET on Hockey Night in Canada.