Burrows defends comments made to Tootoo: 'I don't think I crossed the line'

Vancouver Canucks forward Alex Burrows has denied allegations he made disparaging comments toward New Jersey Devils forward Jordin Tootoo last Sunday.

"I don't think I crossed the line," Burrows said Tuesday via the Canucks' Twitter account. "I've said and heard it before, it should have stayed on the ice."

Burrows also denied his comments were directed at Tootoo's personal history, whether it be previous problems with substance abuse, his family, or his Inuit heritage.

Tootoo chose not to reveal what was said exactly, but told reporters he had "no respect" for Burrows and the league shouldn't tolerate that behavior.

The NHL has checked into the matter, according to Sportsnet's Dan Murphy, apparently ruling that a response will not be necessary.