Referee Unintentionally Assists Game WINNING GOAL #hockey

#nhl #coloradoavalanche #torontomapleleafs

​On March 19, 2025, during a game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Colorado Avalanche, an unusual incident involving referee Kelly Sutherland led to a decisive goal for Toronto. Early in the third period, with the game tied 1-1 and the Maple Leafs on a penalty kill due to a too many men on the ice infraction, defenseman Simon Benoit attempted to clear the puck from the defensive zone. Positioned near the center ice red line, Sutherland tried to evade the incoming puck but lost his balance and fell, inadvertently blocking the clearing attempt. The puck deflected off Sutherland and landed near Steven Lorentz, who seized the opportunity to skate into the Avalanche’s zone and score a shorthanded goal past goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood at 2:53 of the third period. This goal proved to be the game-winner, ending Colorado’s nine-game point streak and securing a 2-1 victory for Toronto. ​