Evgeny Kuznetsov Slashed In Leg, Keith Jones Says Kuzy Put on a Show

November 13, 2015 1:05 pm

Thursday night, Evgeny Kuznetsov was slashed from behind in the the right leg (where there’s no protection) by Flyers forward Matt Read. The moment happened early in the third period, when the Caps were up 4-2. Kuznetsov, who has a history of knee problems, collapsed after the hit and writhed in pain. He needed Alex Ovechkin’s help to make it to the bench.

There was no penalty on the play.

Video

If you were listening to the CSN Philadelphia telecast, you might think Kuznetsov’s fall after a two-handed slash was an affront to hockey. Keith Jones insinuated that Kuznetsov dove. Here’s the transcript.

Keith Jones: Here’s a look at the Kuznetsov/Read altercation. It starts with a little push in the top-left corner there. Kuznetsov with a little slash at Read. Read’s retaliation slash there.

Jim Jackson: That was it? He could hardly get off the ice.

Keith Jones: Yeah. Might have been a little show at the end of that one. Referees looked away and Kuznetsov’s out for his next shift.

Jim Jackson: He has the feeling back in his leg. (Sarcasm)

Keith Jones: Somehow.

Chris Therien: They’re not going to call that after the 30-second mark so he should get up and start skating.

This, apparently, was all an elaborate ploy to get a power play. Continuing to ride the pain train once Kuznetsov reached the bench was shameful. Or something.

This is another reason why we’re lucky to have Joe Beninati and Craig Laughlin. They shoot straight. Kuznetsov is an honest player. This is so bizarre to me.