Flames' Nazem Kadri Slams Officials Over Controversial Slashing Call That Cost the Game Against Jets

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Tom Banks
October 28, 2024 (3:30 PM)

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The Calgary Flames came close to ending the Winnipeg Jets undefeated season, but after a questionable call cost them, Nazem Kadri has lashed out at the officials.

The Calgary Flames started their 2024/25 regular season on a roll, and while they fell short of dethroning the undefeated Winnipeg Jets on Saturday night, they put up a fantastic fight on home ice. Unfortunately, there were some bad breaks for the team during the 5-3 loss, including a questionable slashing call on Nazem Kadri that led to a key powerplay goal for the Jets.

After the game, the veteran Kadri didn't hold back when he was asked about the call, stating his opinion that the officials needed to have a better feel for the game after making a questionable call in a big moment.

"We had a great game on our hands." Kadri said. "It's very unfortunate that's what it had to come down to ... I feel like you've got to have some feel for the game and that's certainly, especially when they're coming off a five-on-three, to have that one called is upsetting."

While players don't like to make excuses, Kadri was asked if he believes the team were robbed of a potential victory, and his response to that was very telling.

"I think so. I think it's pretty natural to feel that way. I mean, both teams are fighting are, scraping for every inch out there ... Obviously to have that not go in your favour and just not let the players decide, essentially, is frustrating, for sure."

Ultimately, it was a call that could be made, but it was certainly not an overt penalty that needed to be called, and given the gravity of the moment, it certainly turned the tide in the favour of the Jets. We will need to wait and see what the NHL or potential future officials will do to react to these comments, but given how the league looks down upon players calling out officials, it's certainly a major decision from Kadri to go after them like this.