NHL continues to prove they have no idea what goalie interference is after another controversial call

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Matt Garland
November 24, 2022 (2:23 PM)

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It was a night full of no goal decisions on Wednesday for the NHL. During the Toronto Maple Leafs and New Jersey Devils game there were three goals called back for New Jersey. Two because of goaltender interference and one because the puck was determined to be kicked in.

The Vancouver Canucks were also on the unfortunate end of a no goal call. With Vancouver down 2-1 in the second period, Conor Garland appeared to tie the game after tipping a Luke Schenn point shot past Pavel Francouz. The Avalanche challenged for goaltender interference, and the goal was overturned.

Garland's reaction:
https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1595635736983834624

Here's the explanation the NHL situation room offered up as to why the goal was called back.

"Video review determined Vancouver's Conor Garland had a significant presence in the crease and made contact with goaltender Pavel Francouz which impaired his ability to play his position prior to Garland's goal.
The decision was made in accordance with Rule 69.1, which states in part, "Goals should be disallowed only if: (1) an attacking player, either by his positioning or by contact, impairs the goalkeeper's ability to move freely within his crease or defend his goal.""

Vancouver used the no goal decision as fuel, captain Bo Horvat scored a few minutes later. Avs took the lead back before the second period was over, leading 3-2 after two. The Canucks scored two in the third to win the game 4-3.

Garland could have really used that goal for his confidence. He hasn't scored in twelve games now, counting Wednesday night. For the season the 26 year old, has scored 3 goals and 9 points in 19 games. If the Canucks are still out of the playoff picture around the deadline, except to hear Garland's name in the market.