Canadiens-Sabres Game 5 could see referees enforce a rarely used penalty

An interesting rumor is circulating ahead of Game 5 between the Canadiens and the Buffalo Sabres Thursday night at KeyBank Center.

The referees could start seriously calling penalties for “diving” in this series after several questionable embellishments, particularly during Game 4.

Lance Lysowski raised the issue on social media after Game 4 last night at the Bell Centre, and the rumor has been gaining traction ever since.

“Wonder if we see any embellishment calls in Game 5. There were some hilarious dives tonight in Montreal.”

– Lance Lysowski

That is exactly the kind of observation that perfectly summarizes what everyone saw during the game.

Referees enforcing NHL Rule 64 could shift Game 5 between the Canadiens and Sabres

Well. Sabres fans and analysts will probably say the same thing about the Canadiens, but still!

One thing is certain: the officials took the bait several times during the game, and it has to stop.

The NHL rulebook is actually very clear on the matter.

“Under NHL Rule 64, referees can assess a two-minute minor penalty for diving or embellishment when a player exaggerates or feigns contact in an attempt to draw a call.”

But officials rarely enforce this rule consistently, something that could change as soon as tomorrow night!

If the referees do decide to take this trend seriously for Game 5, it could completely change the dynamic of the series.

For the Canadiens, this is exactly the kind of adjustment (from the referees) that could make all the difference.

Now it remains to be seen whether the rumor will materialize on the ice Thursday night at KeyBank Center.

Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Thursday night!