Skip to content

McDavid seems to get 'white-glove treatment' from refs, says Carlyle

Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today Sports

The fate of the Anaheim Ducks' season will be heavily influenced by the performance of Connor McDavid. That goes without saying.

As if his remarkable footspeed, awe-inspiring hands, and cunning hockey IQ, aren't enough to deal with, Ducks coach Randy Carlyle believes his club is battling the refs when it comes to No. 97, too.

"To me, it seems like there is somewhat of a white-glove treatment for Mr. McDavid," Carlyle told reporters, according to Frank Seravalli of TSN. "The restrictions on anybody touching him seem to be a little bit higher than normal. It's fact. Simple. We review the tape numerous times.

"He does draw penalties because of his speed. But if you don't get close to him and you're not inside of him, you're going to watch him or you're going to try to impede his progress."

Through three games of the second-round series, McDavid has two points and has drawn a penalty in each contest.

Despite allowing him to score a highlight-reel goal, the Ducks got the best of McDavid in Game 3, as he was also on the ice for three goals against. They'll look to do the same Wednesday night in Game 4.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox