Tocchet reveals why he chose not to challenge controversial goal

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Luc Leblanc
May 1, 2024 (3:21 PM)

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The Vancouver Canucks lost a close matchup with the Nashville Predators by a score of 2-1 on Tuesday night. With the win, Nashville fought off elimination as they closed the Canucks' series lead to 3-2. Controversially, the Preds' first goal was not challenged despite many fans thinking it should have been � and it was ultimately the deciding factor.

Canucks' head coach Rick Tocchet explained his reasoning for not opting to challenge the controversial call following the game:

If we're down 2-1, then maybe [I'd challenge]. But it's 50-50 at that point

� Rick Tocchet

We just looked at it. I don't know what the NHL would do on that one. I don't. So, if I don't know 100 percent ... it's a 1-1 game. We thought about it, but I thought it was 50-50, personally.

As the Canucks' penalty kill operated at just 79% during the regular season (17th in the NHL), perhaps Tocchet though it was wise not to risk losing the challenge and have his team down a goal in addition to an ensuing penalty kill. Despite this, their penalty kill is operating at a smooth 17-for-19 in this series so far.

Nashville would add another tally following the call and come out on top by a single goal. The series will now head back to Bridgestone Arena as the Canucks will try to prevent a potential Game 7 on home ice from happening. Their starting goaltender has yet to be determined.