Throughout the 2023-24 NHL season, discussions and conflicts regarding the unwritten rules of hockey have arisen, with the Pittsburgh Penguins almost becoming focal points of these debates. Following a challenging 6-4 defeat to the Boston Bruins, tensions reached a boiling point in the closing seconds of the game.
Amidst the commotion on the ice, Crosby approached Pastrnak. ESPN analyst Ray Ferraro, situated between the benches, remarked that Pastrnak argued he had no intention of scoring. Crosby challenged Pastrnak's explanation, yet the altercation subsided before escalating further. After the game, Crosby attempted to downplay the incident, though his evident frustration with his opponent was apparent.
Recent discussions have revolved around the appropriate approach to scoring on empty nets in last-second scenarios. Even though Jarry maintained his position during Pastrnak's slapshot, does his action violate the unwritten rules? Although Pastrnak didn't secure a goal, he contributed two assists to the Bruins' victory over the Penguins. Given the Penguins' current standings, Crosby's frustration might have peaked in that instance.