In playoff hockey, even the refs are tough guys
We've all heard the stories about how tough hockey players are, but Steve Kozari made a case during Saturday's Boston Bruins-Detroit Red Wings game that the referees are just as resilient.
During Game 5 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals, Dougie Hamilton's clearing attempt in the third period drilled Kozari in the side of the face.
The ref immediately fell to the ice and was in obvious pain as the Bruins trainer came on the ice and escorted him off the ice.
The officials called a TV timeout as they huddled together to figure out what their next move should be, but when the game resumed, Kozari was right back out there on the ice for the rest of the B's 4-2 series-clinching win.
"Because It's the Cup" clearly applies to the guys in black and white, as well.
Referee Nailed By Puck During Penguins-Blue Jackets Game (GIF)
Sidney Crosby Flops After Incidental Contact With Referee (Video)
