Boston Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery's frustration with the officiating, which flared up during Game 3 of their Stanley Cup playoff series against the Florida Panthers, escalated further in Game 4.
Montgomery was incensed when a game-tying goal by the Panthers was allowed to stand, despite his belief that it should have been disallowed right from the start.
The controversy centered around a play where Panthers forward Sam Bennett allegedly pushed Bruins forward Charlie Coyle into Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman, impacting the play.
The goal was reviewed, but officials upheld the decision, further fueling Montgomery's anger.
Montgomery and the Bruins' coaching staff challenge for goalie interference – their first of the postszn.
The goal stands, coaches are now 1-3 for interference challenges in the 2024 playoffs.
Though there was no audio capture of Montgomery's outburst at the officials, his body language and expressions spoke volumes about his displeasure. Based on the scene, Montgomery appeared to be swearing at the referees in French, possibly saying
"Mange de la marde,"
which translates to
"Eat s***."
This reaction was noteworthy, considering the referees, Frederick L'Ecuyer and Francis Charron, could understand French.
we are all jim montgomery
This incident, captured in a slow motion and close-up replay, offers a clear view of the disputed moment. Take a look for yourselves and see the intensity of the playoff atmosphere and the stakes involved in this heated series.
