Kyle Clifford & Kurtis Gabriel Drop The Gloves After Lengthy Pre-Game Chat

Kyle Clifford of the St. Louis Blues and Kurtis Gabriel of the San Jose Sharks dropped the gloves in a spirited bout during last evening's matchup. The two were spotted having a little chat during the pre-game warmup, which ultimately lead to this tilt.

At the time, we didn't know why Gabriel and Clifford were chatting. After a few moments, the only thing the commentators were able to lip read was 'let's go', indicating that the two would drop the gloves.

After the game, Gabriel took to twitter to explain why he initiated this pre-planned scrap. He said this was payback for Blues' goaltender Jordan Binnington's actions last week, where he began punching players after being pulled. Gabriel claims to be personal friends with Binnington, but can not allow those antics while he's in the line up.

Clifford must be recognized for his willingness to exchange blows; he surely didn't have to go against the AHL regular. Additionally, Gabriel is doing anything he can to make himself valuable to the team. He should also be recognized for willing to go toe-to-toe with a certified NHL bad boy.

Kurtis Gabriel and Kyle Clifford had a friendly pregame chat 🍿 pic.twitter.com/hVLpYvtJ8p
— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) March 9, 2021

Kurtis Gabriel and Kyle Clifford threw down the gloves after a testy pregame exchange 🥊 pic.twitter.com/qvHcMIZ43y
— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) March 9, 2021

This was him having to fight me because of their goalies antics last game. Nobody will disrespect this team when I am around and not have to pay up for it.
— Kurtis Gabriel (@kurtisgabriel) March 9, 2021

Binner is a good friend of mine. Said back in Junior he would be a starter in the NHL. Had an unbelievable year his draft year, almost ran the white table to a mem cup. Not surprised he accomplished what he did with your team. Much respect 🙌🏻
— Kurtis Gabriel (@kurtisgabriel) March 9, 2021