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Predators Coach Complained That Ref Winked At Blackhawks Bench

(CBS) The lengths the Nashville Predators will go to in their attempt to protect their house when the Blackhawks visit -- and to perhaps troll them in general -- are well-documented.

When the Blackhawks have visited, the Predators have passed on playing the national anthem in favor of "God Bless America," for fear that visiting Chicago fans will do what they're famous for at the United Center -- cheering loudly throughout the "Star-Spangled Banner."

When the Blackhawks have visited, the Predators have handed out free popcorn to those wearing the gold home colors.

When the Blackhawks have visited, an exchange has been set up in which red Blackhawks shirts could be turned in for a Predators shirt.

When tickets have gone on sale, all types of season-ticket packages have included games against the Blackhawks, so as to get more home fans there.

Now, we can add another item to the list of Nashville's paranoia.

In a post published Monday by The Tennessean that cites a video, Predators coach Peter Laviolette accuses referee Kevin Pollock of winking at the Blackhawks' bench during a Dec. 30 matchup, apparently soon after Laviolette and Pollock had had a conversation.

Seriously.

"Don't lie to be and tell me you didn't wink," Laviolette screams at Pollock after his loud accusations.

Chicago won the game 5-4 at the United Center. Check out the video clip below.

Coach Laviolette yells at referee for winking at Blackhawks bench by gumpyyy on YouTube
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