Controversy erupted before the puck even dropped in Game 2 between the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals, as fans and analysts uncovered a surprising officiating decision by the NHL. The league’s assignment of referee Kelly Sutherland—a figure with a well-documented history of tension with Canadiens head coach Martin St-Louis—sparked heated debate and speculation about fairness.

Earlier this season, Sutherland was at the center of the only incident that truly rattled St-Louis, prompting a now-infamous press conference where the coach repeatedly refused to comment on the officiating.

With emotions running high and memories of that clash still fresh, many wondered whether the NHL’s choice would influence the outcome of such a pivotal playoff game. The situation highlighted the complex relationship between referees and coaches, especially when past grievances linger.

As the Canadiens continue their fight in the series, the focus remains not just on the players’ performances, but also on the men in stripes—and whether old wounds might resurface at the worst possible time. Regardless of who’s officiating, Montreal faces mounting pressure to find a way to win and keep their playoff hopes alive.

Photo credit: NHL

Before Game 2 between the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals, a very interesting discovery was made. It comes from the excellent Marc-Olivier Cook of the site DansLesCoulisses.

Even before last night’s game, even before the harsh criticism regarding the officiating, it was discovered that the referee chosen by the NHL for Game 2 between the Canadiens and Capitals was none other than the one who got under Martin St-Louis’ skin earlier this season.

The only referee who truly managed to make Martin St-Louis lose his patience this season.. Wow!

A Controversial Referee Choice for Game 2 Between the Montreal Canadiens and Washington Capitals

As mentioned by the DLC site, for Game 2, the same referee who got under Martin St-Louis’ skin against the Rangers in November was sent back into the mix.

So, there was some history.

Yes, we’re talking about the referee who was targeted by the now, famous quote from Martin St-Louis (a quote he repeated in every answer during the press conference, saying it roughly 12 times).

“I loved our game.
I won’t talk about the referees.”

– Martin St-Louis

The person targeted by those comments was, in part, Kelly Sutherland (who was the referee for last night’s game).

It’s the only time all season that Martin St-Louis truly lost his patience with the officials.

“Let’s hope Sutherland doesn’t have a long memory and isn’t looking to penalize the Habs partly because of St-Louis’ comments after that game a few months ago”

[…]

“We also know that referees tend to be stricter with players/coaches they don’t like.”

– Marc-Olivier Cook, before last night’s game

It’s up to you to decide if this explains anything, but let’s just say this really wasn’t the ideal referee for Martin St-Louis and the Canadiens last night.

One thing’s for sure, the Canadiens will need to quickly find a way to win a game in this series, no matter who the referees are.