Penguins, Guentzel Goal Overturned on Controversial Goalie Interference Challenge

The Pittsburgh Penguins had a pair of goals overturned in the first period Saturday against the Buffalo Sabres.

The first, Drew O’Connor’s goal, was easily overturned when replays showed Penguins captain Sidney Crosby clearly offside. However, the second sent fans and the Penguins into disbelief and anger.

With 1:05 remaining in the first period, it appeared Jake Guentzel tipped Crosby’s shot past Buffalo goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukonen. However, Buffalo coach Don Granato quickly challenged for goalie interference.

Risking a penalty, Buffalo was rewarded when the overhead replay showed Guentzel made contact with Luukonen’s head as the shot headed toward the net.

Luukonen’s reaction was slightly delayed as the puck sailed past.

Luukonen was in the crease, but leaning forward as Guentzel skated past. Penguins coach Mike Sullivan waved his arms in mocking laughter after the call as Penguins at PPG Paints Arena showered referees with their disapproval, too.

Take a look for yourself:

Goaltender interference here?#LetsGoPens | #LetsGoBuffalo pic.twitter.com/aSDPCptDwR

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) January 7, 2024

Don’t hate the messenger, even our Dan Kingerski — after initially saying no — agreed with the call.

I didn’t think it was interference…until I saw the overhead replay. Guentzel clearly made contact with UPL in the crease as the puck was on its way and Guentzel could have avoided it.

— Dan Kingerski (@TheDanKingerski) January 7, 2024

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