Did Detroit News Photographer Help Red Wings Score Game-Tying Goal?

The recent match between the Detroit Red Wings and the Washington Capitals became a talking point mainly for an unusual tying goal scored by Detroit forward Alex DeBrincat. This incident raised questions about whether a Detroit News photographer played a role in the goal. The game took place at Little Caesars Arena, where DeBrincat tied the score 3-3 with just 53 seconds remaining in the third period.

Unforeseen Circumstances Leading to the Goal

DeBrincat’s goal was described as a “lucky bounce.” From outside the Capitals’ blue line, his wrist shot struck a camera opening positioned near the playing area. The opening, used frequently by long-time photographer Dave Guralnick, allowed the puck to ricochet into the net. This surprising moment came when the Red Wings were trailing 3-2, making it critical for their standings.

Game Details and Analysis

• Final Score: Detroit Red Wings 3 – Washington Capitals 4 (Shootout)
• Goal Timings: DeBrincat scored at 19:07 of the third period.
• Pivotal Moment: The goal ultimately tied the game, allowing the Red Wings to gain one point from the match.

Despite the valuable point earned, the Red Wings went on to lose 4-3 in a shootout. The play created buzz on social media, with former NHL defenseman Erik Johnson commenting on the peculiarity of the goal. He noted that it was an extremely rare occurrence that one might see only once in thousands of games.

Coaches and Players Weigh In

Capitals coach Spencer Carbery referred to the goal as “obscure,” stating that such incidents are unlikely to recur. He explained the mechanics behind the photo hole, covered by plexiglass. Guralnick, managing the camera for nearly three decades, confirmed that the puck striking the hole caught him completely by surprise. He noted that he only realized a goal was scored after the crowd erupted.

Red Wings coach Todd McLellan expressed that it seemed “pretty bleak for a while,” acknowledging the significance of the unexpected bounce. DeBrincat himself remarked on the fortune of obtaining a point and mentioned that he was just trying to rim the puck before it took that peculiar path. Currently, the Red Wings maintain a second-place position in the Atlantic Division with 70 points.

NHL Photography Guidelines

The incident also highlights the NHL’s photo requirements for photographers, which include:

• Engagement of photo hole covers when not in use.
• Use of sliding covers when players come within 10 feet of the hole.
• Application of traditional plugs when the hole is unused.
• Restrictions on lens hood usage with photo holes.
• Limiting photo lens extension to within one inch of the hole.

In closing, the unusual tying goal scored by Alex DeBrincat in the game against the Capitals is a testament to the unpredictability of hockey. The unique role played by the camera hole adds to the lore of the sport, reminding fans of the many unexpected twists that can occur in a single match.