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Evan Rodrigues Sends the NHL a Clear Message Following Viral Embellishment Call

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Tom Banks | Last updated May 11, 2025 6:00 PM ET

The Stanley Cup Playoffs have seen some questionable calls thus far, and after a Game 2 embellishment call on Evan Rodrigues, he's reacted to the shock call.

Game 2 between the Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs was chaotic, and while the series is now 2-1 in favour of Toronto, Game 2 may have been the most crucial win for the Maple Leafs in the post-season thus far.

During the game however, there were many questionable calls, with the worst of all being an embellishment call made on veteran Evan Rodrigues, which many people at the time, even Maple Leafs fans questioned.

Now, the talented forward has reacted to the play, revealing that as he was leaving the ice due to injury, he didn't realize that he had been given a call until after the game.

'I didn't find out until after the game... I didn't have a clue. I figured there was coincidental roughings. I couldn't believe it. My brother texted me & I was shocked.'

This comes as no surprise, as Rodrigues was on the ice holding his face after being hit into the boards from behind, and given how hard that contact was, there's no reason for him to believe that he was called for an embellishment.

Even days later looking back at this call, it's clear that it was a terrible one from the officials, as they potentially looked to get even for not calling any interference on goaltender contact in Game One, but clearly, this wasn't the position for them to get even.

Ultimately, both teams have moved past it now with a must-win Game 4 for both on Sunday evening, but it's safe to say that Rodrigues in his career may never be called for a penalty worse than this one.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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