The incident, which ignited controversy among fans and players alike, unfolded with just under six minutes remaining in the second period.
The tension between Eichel and Kaprizov had been building, following a hefty cross-check from the Wild forward that went unnoticed by the officials. Eichel's response, however, caught the referee's eye. Despite what many thought was a less severe retaliation, Eichel was handed a five-minute major and a game misconduct penalty, a decision that left him visibly stunned and cautious not to voice his frustration further.
Yet, as any seasoned player knows, disputing a referee's call is seldom fruitful, and for the Golden Knights, this instance was no exception.