SUNRISE - Daniil Tarasov delivered a standout performance in goal for the Florida Panthers against the Buffalo Sabres on Friday night, but it’s his postgame comments that are destined to be remembered.
Following Florida’s 3-2 loss, Tarasov’s candid remarks about a controversial play are making waves. The incident in question involved Buffalo defenseman Mattias Samuelsson’s stick interfering with Tarasov’s glove during a critical 55-foot slap shot from Beck Malenstyn. The goal gave the Sabres a 2-1 lead in a tightly contested match.
Florida’s coach, Paul Maurice, immediately challenged the goal, believing Samuelsson’s interference was clear. “I thought he made contact with the glove twice,” Maurice noted, confident the goal would be overturned. But the NHL’s Situation Room in Toronto saw it differently, upholding the goal and giving Buffalo a power-play opportunity.
Tarasov didn’t hold back in his postgame interview, questioning the decision-making process. “Who did the call on this?
Toronto?” he asked, before adding, “What are those guys smoking there?”
He even hinted at possible bias due to Florida’s recent victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. “Or, they’re disappointed for yesterday’s [Leafs] loss?
I don’t know.”
Despite the controversy, Tarasov remained composed, more bemused than enraged. His comments, however, could result in a fine under the NHLPA’s collective bargaining agreement, likely costing him a few thousand dollars.
Maurice, aware of the potential financial repercussions, treaded carefully with his own comments. “They felt it was more incidental,” he said diplomatically. The frustration was palpable, as the Panthers are in a tight race for a playoff spot, sitting eight points behind the Boston Bruins with only 23 games remaining.
Tarasov’s stellar performance was overshadowed by the loss, but his ability to match saves with Florida’s other goalies like Alex Lyon was evident. The Panthers need to rally quickly, as they face a grueling schedule with four games in six days, starting with the New York Islanders.
“Tarry was great,” Maurice praised. “The goaltending, and there were chances, I thought was world class tonight.” With the Panthers aiming for a postseason run, Tarasov’s role will be crucial.
As the team prepares for their upcoming road trip, they’ll need to shake off this loss and focus on the challenges ahead. A win against the Sabres could have provided a morale boost, but the Panthers must now look forward and capitalize on their remaining games.