During the game, Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe made the decision to replace goaltender Ilya Samsonov with emergency backup Jett Alexander. This move was viewed by many as a slap in the face to the Canadiens, including Canadiens defenseman Chris Wideman, who commented that
After the game, Keefe was asked by the media about the decision to play Alexander. According to the Leafs head coach, the decision came from management and not from Keefe himself. Some speculate that this decision may have been an attempt by the Leafs to embarrass the Canadiens in retaliation for their elimination of the Leafs in the playoffs back in 2021.
Regardless of the motives behind the decision, it has drawn controversy to say the least.
POLL | ||
9 AVRIL | 774 ANSWERS Sheldon Keefe Shared Why He Decided To Play Emergency Backup Vs The Habs Did The Toronto Maple Leafs Try To Disrespect The Canadiens? | ||
Yes | 139 | 18 % |
No | 635 | 82 % |
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