Florida Panthers winger
Jonathan Huberdeau was able to pick the corner on New Jersey Devils goaltender MacKenzie Blackwood on Thursday to put his team up 3-1 in the third period, but after a coach's challenge, it appeared as though the goal call may have been reversed.
Huberdeau, who had just notched his 6th goal of the season, appeared to have crossed the blue line before the puck did, which typically would result in the goal coming back. When the call on the ice stood, there were plenty of folks left scratching their heads. You can see the play in question below.
Per the official's ruling, it was decided that Huberdeau had accepted the pass and had control of the puck prior to crossing the blueline, which falls in line with Rule 83.1 in the NHL Rulebook.
The rule states that "a player actually controlling the puck who shall cross the line ahead of the puck shall not be considered 'off-side,' provided he had possession and control of the puck prior to his skates crossing the leading edge of the blue line."
While it is certainly debatable that Huberdeau had full control of the puck prior to crossing the line, the fact that he was receiving the pass entirely uncontested likely played a role in the call on the ice being a good goal.
Nevertheless, you don't see a play like that everyday. That's one of those borderline calls that you love to have fall in your favor, but hate to be on the wrong side of - especially in a coach's challenge situation where you are penalized if unsuccessful.
