Coach’s Corner: Too much diving in Cup final

Don Cherry and Ron MacLean discuss the diving and penalties in the first period of Game 4, they play of Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Victory Hedman and much more.

The 2015 Stanley Cup Final is producing some high-quality hockey, but Don Cherry feels there has been too much embellishment that has resulted in a number of soft penalties called against the Tampa Bay Lightning and Chicago Blackhawks.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is the Finals. This used to be war,” Cherry said on Coach’s Corner on Hockey Night in Canada during Game 4 Wednesday. “Look at these penalties. I mean diving all over the place.”

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Through the first three games, there were 17 minor penalties called and the first period of Game 4 saw five different players sent to the box for two-minute infractions. Clearly Cherry – and many fans watching – didn’t agree with every call.

“These guys are ruining the game as far as I’m concerned and that’s all I’ve got to say about it. This is war. This is supposed to be the finals.”

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