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Artem Anisimov apologizes for gunning down the Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning v New York Rangers

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 08: Artem Anisimov #42 of the New York Rangers celebrates scoring a goal in the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Madison Square Garden on December 8, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

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Artem Anisimov is apologizing for his “rifleman” celebration against the Lightning last night.

Anisimov’s incredible goal celebration managed to catch the ire of not just Vincent Lecavalier and Steve Stamkos, but also that of his coach John Tortorella. When you get opponents upset that’s one thing, getting John Tortorella displeased with you is something else entirely.

As Andrew Gross of Rangers Rants makes note, Tortorella supports Anisimov, but you know he’s not too pleased.

“You guys all know him, he’s a great kid. I don’t think he realized what would happen in that type of situation and I don’t think that’s planned by him to go that far. I don’t blame Tampa at all, I’d expect our team to do the same thing. It’s a lesson learned pretty quickly.”

If you’re wondering if the league will do anything to punish Anisimov, don’t count on it. The NHL didn’t suspend or fine Arron Asham for his “go to sleep” taunt of Jay Beagle early this season and Beagle wound up injured because of that fight. If anything happens to Anisimov because of this, mark it down as something else to be skeptical about how the NHL punishes players.