Hockey Lessons For n00bz: The Sean Avery Rule

Since the Caps are playing the Rangers this week I thought it would be a good time to look at the Sean Avery inspired rule that I didn't know existed.

A tweak to the rules was added after a crazy play during the NHL playoffs in 2008. During the play, Avery stood in front of the goalie blocking his vision with his hands & body, raising his stick up and down in front of the goaltender's face. He did not look back at the puck, and focused 100% of his time on f'ing with the goalie Broudour.

The announcer kind of flipped out like it was the most insane thing he had ever seen in his life. The NHL quickly added a stipulation to the unsportsmanlike penalty that would prevent previously legal non-hockey like tactics like Avery's from being used. Hense the "Sean Avery rule" title.


Watching this play is hilarious. I love the announcer's reaction. "Sean Avery's tactics in screening the goaltender is like something I've never seen before" Apparently Avery won't be able to do this against the Caps on Friday. Bummer.