Today in NHL History

On this day in 2003, an unspeakable crime against animals occurred. So unspeakable was this offense, it made Michael Vick blush. Such was the occurrence on 20 January 2003, during the battle of Alberta at Scotiabank Saddledome (on a side note - best arena name in hockey? In this author's opinion: yes); the perpetrator - Craig McTavish, Edmonton Oilers coach. The victim - Harvey the Hound - Calgary Flames canine mascot.





Early in the 3rd period of a 4-goal blowout by the Flames, Harvey got on the nerves of Mr. McTavish with his incessant pestering. Fully fed up, Coach McTavish reached up and yanked the tongue straight from the mouth of the unsuspecting four-legged mascot.





McTavish then proceeded to toss Harvey's signature red tongue right into the Calgary crowd. The incident seemed to light a fire under the collective Oilers bench, as they went on to score 3 unanswered goals, yet the Flames held on to win 4-3. Oilers got the last laugh, though - they made the playoffs that season, ending up losing to Dallas in the first round, 4-2.