Ovechkin Drops Gloves with Downie, But Bradley Does Dirty Work posted by Frederick Barry
There was no shortage of excitement last night when the Washington Capitals took on the Tampa Bay Lightning. The best moment came late in the game when the gloves were dropped by Alex Ovechkin and Steve Downie. Interestingly enough, Ovechkin and Downie never got down to business.
Things got heavy between Downie and Ovechkin early in the third period. As Downie swept in to make a move, Ovie made a move of his own by cruising in to crush the right wing with a hard hit. However, Downie's teammates contend that the hit was dirty because Ovechkin may have used his knee in the collision.
Tampa's Center Jeff Halpern said of the hit, "Downs makes a move. [Ovechkin] sticks his knee out, leaves his knee out there...it's not the cheapest hit in the world, but it's still a dirty hit."
That said, it was not a penalty and some players never even noticed the controversial knee. Even though Downie didn't comment after the game regarding whether or not Ovechkin stuck his knee out, he certainly behaved in-game as if that was the case. After the collision, Downie took a swing at Ovechkin who swung back, clearly ready for a fight to ensue. At this juncture a fight was not to happen, though, as the ref quickly stepped in and sent both men to the box for roughing - a two minute penalty.
After spending time in the box the penalty was in the past, but the mens' agitation stayed high. Ovechkin and Downie shared some words and the intent of the men became clear as Downie threw his gloves to the ice. Answering the call, Ovechkin followed suit and even removed his helment in preparation for the throw-down. Little did Ovie know he wouldn't have to throw a single punch.
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