Despite being ejected, Tortorella refused to leave the bench, leading to a heated confrontation that has since been analyzed by a lip-reading expert.
Tortorella's actions resulted in a two-game suspension and a hefty $50,000 fine. The NHL's response suggests a zero-tolerance approach to coaches' treatment of referees, particularly regarding Tortorella's refusal to comply with the ejection.
This incident comes amidst a trend of head coaches being fined for their comments towards officials, albeit at much lower amounts. It appears the NHL is aiming to send a clear message to coaches about respecting referees, especially as the intensity ramps up heading into the playoffs.
POLL | ||
15 MARS | 102 ANSWERS Lip-Reading Expert Reveals Exactly What John Tortorella Said To Get Ejected And Suspended Do you think the suspension was fair? | ||
Yes | 40 | 39.2 % |
No | 62 | 60.8 % |
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