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Former NHL enforcer Sean Avery facing backlash from fans after bashing Mika Zibanejad for his offseason habits

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Tyler Ball
October 16, 2024  (8:35 PM)
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Former New York Rangers forward Sean Avery skating during a home game in the NHL.
Photo credit: Sportsnet

This evening New York Rangers polarizing former enforcer Sean Avery called out Mika Zibanejad for his effort in a recent game and now Sean Avery is getting backlash.

Sean Avery is well known for being a controversial figure within the NHL. There is his infamous moment where he taunted Martin Brodeur. Off the ice, he has also gotten himself into trouble for various things as well. Since retiring Sean Avery continues to keep his opinion on certain things within hockey known.

Today Sean Avery decided to speak about his former team the New York Rangers. Sean Avery called out Rangers star Mika Zibanejad for not competing hard enough throughout the season so far. Sean Avery broke down a clip of a New York Rangers powerplay as he berated Mika Zibanejad.

Let's watch Mika Zibanejad do nothing for 20 seconds. He's gonna hide he's looking for easy back door plays. Doesnt really want to get his hands dirty. DJing in Ibiza all summer.


Sean Avery's comments stem from Mika Zibanejad's summer hobby of DJing at big shows around the world. Over the last few offseasons, Zibanejad has traveled back to his home country Sweden to play in front of massive crowds.

Since making these comments there have been mixed reactions from NHL fans. Some have supported Sean Avery and believe Mika Zibanejad needs to play tougher. Others believe Sean Avery doesn't know what he's talking about and doesn't understand Mika Zibanejad's game.

This is not the first time that Sean Avery has been seen calling out an NHL player for not playing physically enough. Last season Sean Avery called out Maple Leafs enforcer Ryan Reaves. Avery called out Reaves for not sticking up for his teammate against the Boston Bruins.This is something that Sean Avery seems to be right about after Reaves was benched for not standing up for a teammate.

Even with Sean Avery's track record of being right about these things he is clearly reaching here. Mika Zibanejad is one of the most talented forwards in the NHL and his team was on the powerplay. As a result, star players are going to play differently and think from more of a skill and offensive perspective in those moments.

Sean Avery will continue to have a platform in hockey but his takes continue to feel outdated as the NHL transitions to a more skilled less physical game.

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Former NHL enforcer Sean Avery facing backlash from fans after bashing Mika Zibanejad for his offseason habits

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