Kyle Robertson – Columbus Dispatch
After Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom was handed a penalty for a high-stick at the end of yesterday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Blue Jackets scored the game winner on the subsequent power play. Following the game, Caps coach Barry Trotz expressed his displeasure with Columbus captain Nick Foligno’s clear embellishment on the play. Now Foligno and his coach are responding.
The controversy stemmed from a high-sticking penalty called on Nicklas Backstrom with 1:34 left in the third period, and the game tied 2-2. The penalty would lead to the winning goal for Columbus.
Replays show that Backstrom did not make contact with Foligno, and that Foligno embellished the incident. Backstrom stated after the game that he didn’t touch Foligno.
Trotz told the media after the game he felt it was “disrespectful to the game“. “I hope the league looks at that,” Trotz told reporters. “You see the replay. (Backstrom) doesn’t really touch him. (Foligno’s) head pops up when Backy’s stick is already on the way down.
Head Coach Barry Trotz on Sunday afternoon’s 3-2 loss to Columbus. #CapsJackets pic.twitter.com/szo9Mpl26y
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) November 20, 2016
Earlier today, Columbus Head Coach John Tortorella responded to a question regarding Trotz’ comments. As is typical with the outspoken bench boss, he let his feelings be known. “I read it, quit whining”, Tortorella told the Columbus Dispatch, “Quit whining, that’s all I have to say”.
Foligno told The Dispatch he was disappointed to hear Trotz say the captain’s actions were “disrespectful to the game,” and that the NHL should consider fining him. The right wing said as of Monday at 5 p.m., he had heard nothing from the league office and that he didn’t expect any supplemental discipline.
Tortorella is known for expressing his distaste for teams or players that state their displeasure with calls, as he said something similar to the Pittsburgh Penguins last season. Tortorella is already disliked in Washington, and these comments will certainly not sit well with Trotz or Caps fans. The Capitals and Blue Jackets next meeting is set for January 5th at Verizon Center.
By Michael Fleetwood
