Ekblad accuses Finland of diving: 'I think it's cowardly'
In Aaron Ekblad's eyes, it wasn't just Canada's lack of discipline that led to the glut of penalties taken Saturday afternoon.
Related: Finland upsets Canada in blowout victory
The Canadians suffered their second defeat of the tournament, losing in stunning fashion, 5-1, to Finland. The game saw Canada take 11 minor penalties, a number that Ekblad attributes, in part, to the opposition diving.
"Discipline's definitely a factor, but I think I speak for a lot of hockey players in the game, diving isn't part of the game," Ekblad told TSN's Darren Dreger postgame. "I think it's cowardly. It's tough when players are playing that kind of dishonest game."
Finland converted two power-play chances, both coming in the first period. But while Ekblad feels playacting played a role in the result, it's worth noting the Finns also took eight minor penalties of their own.
HEADLINES
- Predators rally to hand reeling Maple Leafs another loss
- Report: Bergevin leaving advisor role with Kings to be Sabres' AGM
- Leafs spiraling, early Hughes impressions, more NHL hot topics
- Habs' Fowler collects 1st NHL shutout in win over Penguins
- Blackhawks' Nazar out approximately 4 weeks after puck to face