Report: Babcock rips Namestnikov for cheap shot on Andersen

Toronto Maple Leafs fans were incensed during last night’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning due to a cheap shot from Lightning forward Vladislav Namestnikov on Leafs goaltender Frederik Andersen.

As the puck deflected off of Andersen and behind the Leafs net, Namestnikov shoved the Leafs goaltender and then delivered a cross check before fleeing the scene. Luckily, Leafs enforcer Roman Polak was there to take care of business.

Check it out:

While we realize that not everyone is a Polak fan, you have to give the man some credit for standing up for his goalie. Namestnikov clearly wanted no part of the angry Leafs blue liner… and frankly we don’t blame him. Polak can be one tough S.O.B.

Afterwards, Leafs head coach Mike Babcock had some choice words for Namestnikov saying, “To me, when you cross check the goalie, you deserve a good beating.” Amen, Babs. Amen.