Tortorella Calls Orpik Hit "Dirty" & Pens "Arrogant" After Loss
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) — For the second time in three games an opposing coach has a problem with the way the Pittsburgh Penguins play hockey.
Following Pittsburgh's 5-2 win against the New York Rangers Thursday night, Rangers coach John Tortorella left few to wonder his opinion of the Penguins or defenseman Brooks Orpik, who hit Rangers forward Derek Stepan with a knee late in the third period.
His comments sounded rather similar to those made by Flyers coach Peter Laviolette Sunday.
"It's one of the most arrogant organizations in the league," Tortorella said in a post-game presser that lasted barely longer than a minute. "They whine about this stuff all the time, and look what happens."
He wasn't done.
Tortorella went on to address the hit, describing it as a lack of respect between players.
"It's a cheap, dirty hit. I wonder what would happen if we did it to their two whining stars over there. I wonder what would happen," Tortorella said, referring to Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. "I'm anxious to see what happens with the league with this. (There's) just no respect amongst players. None. It's sickening."
Rangers goaltender Martin Biron agreed.
"It was gutless and dirty," he said.
Tortorella finished his rant with this before being escorted away from the media.
"It's ridiculous," Tortorella said. "But they'll whine about something else over there, won't they? Starting with their two (expletive) stars."
Late Friday, the NHL fined Tortorella $20,000 for his outburst.
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