Referee blows whistle but decides to count a goal anyways further creating the narrative the series is rigged

Stop if you've heard this before, but a controversial play is already tainting tonight's Stanley Cup game. With the Golden Knights leading the game 1-0, Nic Hague is able to bang in a loose puck. On the play however the referee clearly blows the whistle before the puck crosses the line.

Much to everyone's surprise the goal ended up standing and the Panthers decided not to challenge the play.


While the continuation play often applies to similar plays, this is just another example of things not making sense in the NHL.