Blue Jackets goalie fights Tom Wilson after brutal crash into net

Just a few days before Christmas, NHL fans were gifted one of the most rare events in hockey: a goalie fight.

During tonight's game with the Washington Capitals visiting the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Capitals' power forward Tom Wilson aggressively crashed the night and made hard contact with goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, who took exception with it. After getting to his feet, Merzlikins immediately began trying to hammer Wilson with punches.


Wilson was the only one who ended up throwing a hard connecting punch, which knocked Merzlikins to his feet again and caused his helmet to pop off. As he got back to his feet, the referees had already stepped in to break up the fight.



Wilson in particular has a reputation for some of the most aggressive plays in hockey, and tonight he showed that his style of play doesn't end with the goaltenders. It's a gutsy display from Wilson, but even greater on Merzlikins' part for sticking up for himself.