This is why the NHL changed its playoff format to make sure most first-round series feature divisional opponents.
There’s no love loss between the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues as was evidenced in Game 4 of their Stanley Cup playoffs first-round series Tuesday night.
Chicago goalie Corey Crawford sparked a near-line brawl when he went after St. Louis forward Robby Fabbri midway through the second period. Fabbri was shoved into Crawford by Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews, but that made little difference to Crawford, who sprung to his feet and attacked Fabbri behind the net.
Play obviously was halted moments later, and the two teams got up close and personal.
All told, five players came away with penalties — all minor penalties — including Fabbri (goaltender interference) and Crawford (roughing).
Crawford’s explanation was pretty simple.
“I got hit in the head,” he told reporters, per the Chicago Sun Times. “I was pretty pissed about that.”
It ultimately was a frustrating night for the Blackhawks. The Blues won 4-3 to take a 3-1 lead in the series.
Thumbnail photo via David Banks/USA TODAY Sports Images
