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‘It’s stupid': Tempers flare after Kesler’s late charge on Granlund

Anaheim Ducks v Los Angeles Kings

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 25: Ryan Kesler #17 of the Anaheim Ducks looks on against the Los Angeles Kings at Staples Center on September 25, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)

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The Anaheim Ducks managed a third-period comeback and 2-1 victory against the Minnesota Wild on Friday, but it was a late hit at the buzzer that caused tempers to flare.

Ryan Kesler caught Wild forward Mikael Granlund with a hit along the boards in the neutral zone just as time was about to expire in the third period. Not only was it a heavy hit, Kesler had Granlund lined up for quite a bit, coming from the middle of the ice to get his shot in.

Kesler received a major penalty for charging. Minnesota’s Zach Parise, a past U.S. Olympic teammate of Kesler, jumped into the bout and was given a major penalty for cross checking.

“Game’s over. It’s stupid,” Parise told Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

The Wild entered this game having not allowed a goal, shutting out the Colorado Avalanche in back-to-back games. That streak looked like it might continue, until Ducks forward Andrew Cogliano scored short handed at the 4:02 mark of the third period.

Corey Perry scored the winner just past the midway point of the third period.

Minnesota goalie Darcy Kuemper saw his shutout streak to begin the season end at 163 minutes and 46 seconds, according to Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register.

Below is a clip of the Kesler charge:

Kesler_hit

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