Craig Berube Sends Message to Gary Bettman and NHL Over Headshot on John Tavares

Many were outraged over the fact that Artem Zub didn't end up getting any type of punishment whatsoever for his elbow to the head of John Tavares. No penalty was called, no fine or suspension was issued thereafter, and it seems the NHL is once again perfectly okay letting the Maple Leafs get potentially injured.

Fans were upset, players weren't happy, and Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube was pretty tee'd off. Speaking to media regarding Zub's headshot on his former captain, the bench boss laid it out plain and simple what he thought about things:

It goes against what everyone believes which is that the Maple Leafs are often favored in games, and it's sparked quite the debate amongst fans online, leading to a social media Battle of Ontario it looks like.

Many are saying that Berube is echoing the antics of Ottawa's head coach Travis Green who has done nothing but complain for most of the series, but was oddly quiet when his team got the victory.

There's a stark difference between Green's belief that Toronto sold some penalties, and the fact that Berube is upset one of his top stars was elbowed in the head. One complaint is ironic given that Tim Stutzle can barely stay on his feet, and the other is a legitimate concern for a star player.

Plus if anyone knows what an intentional head shot is, it's Berube.

Not to say that he was throwing these types of hits, but he played in an era where the league was way less privy to violent actions and often left many things unchecked. There's no denying that sticking out your elbow at 90 degrees directly at someone's head is malicious intent, regardless of who wants to defend it.

The saving grace for both the Leafs and Zub is that Tavares didn't receive any serious injury, though look for the blue and white to get some revenge on Tuesday.

But it doesn't excuse the fact that Zub should have been at least penalized or punished for a vicious elbow. It sets a dangerous precedent and the playoffs can't excuse this type of violence.