NHL Ref’s Goal Call Blunder Goes Viral at Devils-Panthers Game

At the Prudential Center in Newark, NHL official Michael Markovic stumbled through a crucial video review call recently, and the moment has gone viral. With just over a minute left in the final period, his mixed-up announcement sent waves through the crowd of 16,514.

Markovic first stated the puck crossed the line. Then he quickly switched gears. "After review, there is no goal. Florida will get a bench minor for delay of game," he told the stunned crowd.

The play in question saw Panthers' Sam Reinhart put the puck in the net. Officials waved it off due to Anton Lundell making contact with Devils netminder Jake Allen. This sparked a challenge from the Panthers' bench.

"I think, by the end, they had it figured out," Panthers coach Paul Maurice said, per The New York Times.

Allen, the Devils' goalie, backed the final decision. "I should've stopped that shot. I had clear sight. With these calls, you win some and lose some. This time it worked in our favor," he said.

An eight-year veteran with 318 games called, Markovic's mix-up adds to his record. The Devils sealed a 3-1 win on the night. Jack Hughes, Timo Meier, and Nico Hischier struck for New Jersey, while Evan Rodrigues scored for Florida.

The NHL's mic mishaps have made news before. In 2022, ref Chris Lee got caught telling Columbus player Andrew Peeke to "shut the f— up." A year earlier, Tim Peel lost his job after admitting on air he wanted to give Nashville a penalty.

The loss dropped Florida to 3-3-0. New Jersey improved to 3-1-0. Next up, the Panthers visit Buffalo while the Devils host Edmonton at home.