Penguins are ‘furious’ over string of disputed NHL decisions

Frustration is building inside the Pittsburgh Penguins organization after a series of disputed NHL decisions against them during a critical stretch. The Penguins are pushing for a playoff spot after a three-season drought.

The issue gained attention after comments from Josh Yohe, who noted the growing concern. “No, I don’t think there is an NHL conspiracy against the Penguins,” he wrote, but added that repeated missed or questionable calls have turned it into a real story.

“So many blatant, botched calls have gone against them recently that it’s legitimately become a story,” Yohe said. “Couple it with 13 of 14 goalie interference challenges going against them. Organization is furious.”

MORE: Penguins announce Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin injury update before Stars game

NHL analyst Dan Kingerski also said the volume of calls against the Penguins stands out, even if some decisions are technically correct.

“Wow, so, the calls have been legit, but the volume against the Penguins usually means they get a call or two back,” Kingerski wrote. “That’s how it works, but Bichsel taking Karlsson’s stick is bad, now Brazeau was tripped as he tried to exit the zone. Eeeek.”

In most cases, teams expect balance over time, but Pittsburgh has not seen that shift.

Penguins’ Erik Karlsson incident during the Stars game

The anger was clear even on the ice. In a game against the Dallas Stars, defenseman Erik Karlsson reacted strongly after a missed call involving Lian Bichsel. Bichsel knocks Karlsson’s stick before scoring, extending the lead for the Stars in a 6-3 win. No penalty was called, and Karlsson’s reaction showed how much the moment mattered.

That loss added to a tough run. Pittsburgh played without Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin due to injuries, leaving the team short-handed against one of the league’s top sides. Despite a strong start, penalties and key moments swung the game away.

The Penguins remain in the playoff race with a 36-21-16 record, holding a solid position in the Metropolitan Division. However, recent results, injuries and controversial decisions have slowed their push.

With the postseason approaching, emotions are clearly rising. The Penguins believe they are not getting fair breaks, and the timing of those calls could shape their season.

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