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Semyon Varlamov trashes Corey Perry and Steve Downie

Montreal Canadiens v Washington Capitals - Game Five

of the Washington Capitals of the Montreal Canadiens in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Verizon Center on April 23, 2010 in Washington, DC.

Jim McIsaac

While we understand that keeping track of the IIHF World Championships is often an afterthought of hockey fans (and some players alike) it’s not short on drama and explosive words. After Russia took out Canada 5-2 in the quarterfinals, Russian and Washington Capitals goaltender Semyon Varlamov was asked about Canada’s tough tactics used against the team and in particular Alexander Ovechkin from Ducks forward Corey Perry.

“In general Team Canada played very roughly. When the score was 3-0 [Corey] Perry slashed Sasha [Ovechkin] from behind. That was really dirty. I’m sure that Perry did want to injure him.”

Yikes. As if that wasn’t damning enough, Varlamov elaborated further about questionable Team Canada selection Steve Downie.

"...But in Team Canada there are two players like that. Perry and [Steve] Downie. And the second one really confirms his surname. You know what I mean. He behaved shamefully.”

So, wait, just what did Varlamov mean about him living up to his surname? The Washington Examiner’s Dmitry Chesnokov clarified what he meant via Twitter.

Varlamov: “Perry and Downie played dirty. Downie’s last name is justified.” Varly hints that Downie has a Down syndrome. Ouch!

Aside from this being patently offensive, it’s not the first time Varlamov has said something that’s sure to rankle everyone’s feelings. Keep in mind, this is the same guy that last year said he doesn’t care for American women because they’re fat. I’m sure you’ve all been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the John Rocker of the NHL, I’m sure you all figured he would just be a Canadian or an American and not a Russian.