Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck believes that engaging in a fight during the Stanley Cup Playoffs would be unwise, especially for a goaltender.
During Saturday night`s Game 1, where the Winnipeg Jets secured a 5-3 victory over the St. Louis Blues, tensions rose in the final minute, leading to misconduct penalties for nine players from both teams.
In the second scrum near the Jets` net, Blues goalie Jordan Binnington, known for not avoiding confrontations, seemed to consider leaving his crease but ultimately retreated.
After the game, Hellebuyck, a two-time Vezina Trophy recipient, was asked about Binnington`s behavior and whether he anticipated a challenge.
“A goalie fight in the playoffs would be dumb,” Hellebuyck stated simply.
Binnington was not questioned about his intentions after the game. Goalie fights in the playoffs are a rare occurrence.
The last instance of playoff goalie fight dates back to May 3, 1997, when Garth Snow of the Flyers and Steve Shields of the Sabres fought during a Game 1 full-line brawl in the second round series. The Flyers proceeded to win the series in five games but were later defeated by the Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Final.
The internet provides access to footage of this historic brawl.
Tristan Blackwood