Matthew Tkachuk Scores Highly Questionable Kicking Goal Against Oilers

The NHL rule for goals after contact with a foot dictates that a player can re-direct a puck with their foot, but they cannot make a kicking motion at all.

Controversial Matthew Tkachuk goal stands after referee review for kicking motion

Redirection of a puck should only include a firm, planted foot, instead of purposely moving the foot to knock the puck towards the net. The rule actually exists for safety to stop swinging skate blades in close quarters.

If this isn't a kicking motion, what exactly is? Tkachuk's foot is far from planted - he actually raises his skate and there's a clear follow-through kicking motion.

The NHL may have some hyper-specific rule in place, but if every fan and most players are entirely confused by the rules, perhaps they need editing and clarity.

Plenty of fans took to social media to express total shock at the call that Tkachuk scored a good goal with no kicking motion.

Hopefully there will be some more actual detailed explanation from the NHL at some point, because otherwise, fans are going to continue to be dumbfounded by some referee decisions like this.