What do you guys think of this? Uncalled for, or well deserved?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QL193PbOzi0

Ahaha I just looked this up on Youtube an hour ago. I'm guessing you saw the replay during the Leafs vs. Habs game? I did, anyway.

I am undecided about this matter. I mean, refs aren't supposed to become involved other than breaking up a fight. But in the case, the ref was directly involved. The player shoved him. So yeah, I think the Russian guy got what was coming to him. You can call it unsportman-like if you want, but people are okay (actually, they tend to like it) when players get in a fight... if the ref is directly provoked, then why shouldn't he hit back? It's hypocritical to say that the players can get into a fight, but the refs can't.

Again, I don't think refs should get involved when they're trying to break up a fight because it doesn't really involve them. The players are going after each other, not after the ref. And the ref can't pick sides. I'm kinda torn. It's their job to stop violence, not condone it.

But in this specific case... I think the player deserved what he got.

Originally Posted by lizziepizzie

Ahaha I just looked this up on Youtube an hour ago. I'm guessing you saw the replay during the Leafs vs. Habs game? I did, anyway.

I am undecided about this matter. I mean, refs aren't supposed to become involved other than breaking up a fight. But in the case, the ref was directly involved. The player shoved him. So yeah, I think the Russian guy got what was coming to him. You can call it unsportman-like if you want, but people are okay (actually, they tend to like it) when players get in a fight... if the ref is directly provoked, then why shouldn't he hit back? It's hypocritical to say that the players can get into a fight, but the refs can't.

Again, I don't think refs should get involved when they're trying to break up a fight because it doesn't really involve them. The players are going after each other, not after the ref. And the ref can't pick sides. I'm kinda torn. It's their job to stop violence, not condone it.

But in this specific case... I think the player deserved what he got.

Great points. Yea, saw it during the Leafs game. I pretty much agree with you. While I think it's unprofessional for a ref to retaliate, this is a special case. It would not have been appropriate for an NHL ref to do so. But clearly this was some sort of junior hockey game, and yes, the ref was physically "attacked", so I can understand where he is coming from and I'm kinda glad he gave him a few smacks. You simply just don't touch a referee, ever. They are there to do their job, let them do it.

Originally Posted by DanHiggins

Great points. Yea, saw it during the Leafs game. I pretty much agree with you. While I think it's unprofessional for a ref to retaliate, this is a special case. It would not have been appropriate for an NHL ref to do so. But clearly this was some sort of junior hockey game, and yes, the ref was physically "attacked", so I can understand where he is coming from and I'm kinda glad he gave him a few smacks. You simply just don't touch a referee, ever. They are there to do their job, let them do it.

This is a very good point. The ref's actions aside, the player shouldn't have hit him. There is a code of conduct that shouldn't be messed with.

Anyway, wasn't the Leafs vs. Habs game awesome?! The Leafs played so well! Very fast paced and great tension between the players. I think the Leafs wanted to get Montreal back for giving Reims a concussion last season.

Yea, it was an awesome game. Still exciting to watch all the way through. They never let up. And while I don't like an extended amount of roughness in hockey, I think the Leafs have a solid fourth line. I'm liking the coach, I'm liking Dion's new attitude this season, and it's just good to see a team perform well and put a strong effort into their games. I'd be satisfied if I saw this effort all season, regardless of results. Although I certainly hope to see them as a playoff contender.

Originally Posted by DanHiggins

Yea, it was an awesome game. Still exciting to watch all the way through. They never let up. And while I don't like an extended amount of roughness in hockey, I think the Leafs have a solid fourth line. I'm liking the coach, I'm liking Dion's new attitude this season, and it's just good to see a team perform well and put a strong effort into their games. I'd be satisfied if I saw this effort all season, regardless of results. Although I certainly hope to see them as a playoff contender.

I agree! Reimer definitely seems back on his game, which is great because I really like him. I was disappointed last season when they took him out of net towards the end. Van Riemsdyk is a gem, too! I was sad to see Schenn go, but it seems like the trade has paid off. He's done so well in his first season with the Leafs!

Maybe, if we keep up thing now we can see a spot in the playoffs. Really got to nail down our performance at home though.

Originally Posted by DanHiggins

Maybe, if we keep up thing now we can see a spot in the playoffs. Really got to nail down our performance at home though.

That's true! Let's not count our chickens before they hatch.

I like how the ref was classy enough to take his helmet off like an old school guy.

I agree with everything everyone said. The player got whats coming to him.

should make sochi interesting!