2015 Stanley Cup playoffs

Went to Game 3 tonight. Really big win, and really happy that it didn't go to overtime, since I had a 3-1/2 hour drive afterward. Ha. Holtby was outstanding. Crowd was really good, other than the two people behind us telling us to sit down in the final 20 seconds. C'mon, dudes.

 

Ducks d-man Simon Despres was in the middle of it all last night against Calgary. He was cross-checked behind the net by Sam Bennett (no penalty was called), which set up the controversial non-goal. I would have ruled it a goal from what I saw on the replays, but apparently Toronto has different replays. Despres also took a retaliation penalty which probably cost the Ducks the game. With 2:14 left, Stajan ran Ducks goalie Andersen, drawing a penalty that would have given the Ducks a power play for just about the rest of the game, or made it even-strength if/when Ramo was pulled. But Despres clocked Stajan in retaliation and got a penalty himself. With Ramo off, the Flames had a one-man advantage, which became a two-man advantage when Sami Vatanen inadvertantly whacked the puck over the glass for a delay penalty. Gaudreau scored with 19.5 left to tie.
The Flames won in OT during a delayed penalty on the Ducks, who were pissed because they thought they had touched the puck to get a whistle.
Question 1: Is Despres a dumbass for retaliating at that point in the game? Do you HAVE to retaliate when your goalie gets run?
Question 2: Is the rule on a delayed penalty touching the puck or possessing the puck? I'm sure I saw the Ducks touch the puck in the wild scramble, but I'm also sure they never established clear possession.

 

To me he is a dumbass, especially at that point of the game.

As for question 2, I worked in hockey for years and asked refs this question. As far as I know it is supposed to be clear possession but never seems to be consistently called that way anymore.

 

Cosmo is still blacked out from last night. But he should fully recover before tomorrow's Game 5.

 

Heavy style. Blocked shots. Hot goalie. Smart shot selection. Random rookies stepping up to carry the load. What universe am I living in?

One thing I've noticed throughout this series is that the Caps are doing a good job of not forcing point shots, which can often turn quickly into blocks and transition opportunities for odd-man rushes.

Oh, and Holtby has been freaking nails. Caps still haven't had a decent first period in this series, which is another reason why it's crazy they're up 3-1.

 

He's alive!!!!

 

I tried a new thing last night where I had a full glass of water with every beer I drank. Magically, I feel great this morning. Hydration!

 

I really gotta try that sometime. I've heard good things.

 

It usually last for the first two beers and then becomes quickly forgotten.