Columbus Blue Jackets
NHL May Fine John Tortorella For 40-Second Media Walk Out
Speculation is the NHL may fine coach John Tortorella for walking out of a media avail 40 seconds into questions about the Blue Jackets loss.
Understanding that Columbus Blue Jackets’ coach John Tortorella was probably not in a great mood following a Game 5 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, what Torts did in the media avail following the game is… well, a Tortorella-like thing.
After just 40 seconds, the veteran coach walked out of his committed time with the gathered media, refusing to answer, in fact, refusing to let the reporter finish the second question asked.
His response to a legitimate question from Neal Mchale of Inside Hockey about what the team can take away from this unique playoff experience and being in the bubble together was simply, “You know what guys? I’m not going to get into the touchy feely stuff and the moral victories and all that. You guys be safe.”
And, for that, TSN’s Darren Dreger believes the league is going to fine the man who does this all too often.
While doing a spot on TSN OverDrive, Dreger asked. “How about that 40 seconds of gold from John Tortorella today?” The hosts responded, “Is he not unbelievable?” to which Dreger cut in, “I think he gets fined.”
Dreger went on to say that he believes the league will say they’re tired of his dismissive act and will whack him with a financial penalty for continuing to walk out on conferences. Dreger said the NHL will say, “We’re trying to do something here to keep the game relevant, for the most part it’s been great, and we don’t need a poopy pants like you showing up the media 40 seconds in.”
Tortorella’s Act is Certainly Not Hated By Everyone
While many will agree with Dreger and that Tortorella should be fined, there were a lot of people coming to the defense of the coach after his actions went viral on social media. Even in the OverDrive segment, Jeff O’Neil said he didn’t have a problem with it. “He just lost,” he said. He added, “Would you be satisfied if he said, ‘You know what? We’re really gutted right now.’
The rest of the panel didn’t agree suggesting the least he could do is answer a couple of questions as a grown adult.
After all, this is part of the job as an NHL coach. Win or lose, talking to the media is part of the gig and Tortorella often refuses to do so, at least when he’s not belligerent towards them. Those that are tired of seeing this kind of behavior are wondering why he can get away with this act, yet every other coach and a number of the players have to answer questions they don’t really want to after a big loss.
If the league doesn’t fine him, it will send a clear message. For some people, this behavior is tolerated. For the rest of you guys that try to get away with this… don’t mistake yourself for Tortorella.
Next: [Report] Canadiens’ Gallagher Possibly Breaks Jaw in Big Game 5 Win
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