The NFL has the butt fumble and now the NHL has its butt goal. Buffalo Sabres rookie Mark Pysyk shot the puck on net and it popped straight up in the air. Phoenix Coyotes goalie Mike Smith couldn’t find the puck and did the logical thing and retreated to his net. The only problem is the puck landed into his pants and when he slid into the net, he carried the puck across the line with him. This is easily one of the most bizarre goals I’ve ever seen in my entire life.
The NHL issued this explanation for the good goal call:
At 3:47 of overtime in the Coyotes/Sabres game, video review supported the referee’s call on the ice that Mark Pysyk’s shot deflected into the air and landed in goaltender Mike Smith’s equipment and, while attempting to make the save, Smith’s momentum propelled him and the puck completely across the goal line. Good goal Buffalo.
Mike Smith had this to add regarding the incident after the game:
Smith on effort: "It's an honest game and if you don't play how you're supposed to play… you get it jammed right up your butt."
— Joe Yerdon (@JoeYerdon) December 24, 2013
You have to feel for the guy, it’s a terrible way to lose.
