The penalty shot call in the final minute of yesterday’s game was as bad a call as I have ever seen. Kronwall’s defensive play there was impeccable, and completely within the rules. The deep ref had absolutely no business taking the outcome of the game in his hands like that. A straight penalty would have been a terrible call, but the penalty shot was just appalling. The official’s job is to manage the game, not determine its outcome. Unbelievable idiocy on his part.

That said, it wouldn’t even be an issue had the Wings received something even approaching competent goaltending from Conklin. The Hawks won 4-2, and all three goals Conklin allowed were crap. Including the penalty shot. Of course, the team didn’t exactly play top-flight hockey either.

Here’s hoping the outcome of today’s game is different.

Family stuff at my in-laws will keep me from seeing much, if any, of the game.