Canucks comments miss the real reason why Oilers fans are frustrated with McDavid incident
The Vancouver Canucks and the hockey media are heading into tonight's game against the Oilers expecting the fans and team to go after Connor Garland, but they're missing the real point on Oilers fans' concerns.
Connor Garland mobbed Connor McDavid in the final seconds of the teams' last matchup, resulting in McDavid's three game suspension.
Vancouver Canucks saying Connor Garland is Wanted misses the mark
Canucks coach Rick Tocchet called out Oilers fans for having an over the top reaction to Garland's hold, and Connor Garland was asked about being the biggest enemy in Edmonton right now.
Both of their comments miss the real point - the criticism is towards referees and the NHL, not the Canucks.
Connor McDavid snapping and retaliating with his cross check to Connor Garland wasn't just a response to that play, but a result of half a season where the Oilers captain has struggled with the refs.
McDavid is on pace to draw about half as many penalties as last season, and ranks 197th in penalties drawn per 60 minutes. He still plays through more infractions than any other player, and is getting less calls than ever.
Not only that, McDavid's suspension of three games is perceived to be much higher than the precedent set for a cross check - for that matter, Tyler Myers was suspended for too long as well.
Previous suspensions to Auston Matthews and Carson Soucy set a precedent of 2 games, or 1 playoff game.
Oilers fans react to Canucks comments on rivalry rematch
Oilers fans reading these pre-game comments from the Canucks for tonight's game honestly seem confused, when Connor Garland is not public enemy number one. He made a sideshow play, but he's not the real reason behind the problem.
The problem is on the refereeing, and the total inconsistencies of their calls. The Oilers and fans don't want to after Connor Garland, they want more consistency from the NHL.
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