After the announcement NHL superhero Sidney Crosby will not be playing in this weekend’s all-star game it’s evident rules need to change.
The “mild” concussion Crosby suffered earlier this month from a hit to the head is just the
latest injury raising serious alarm bells.
Not only will Crosby fail to lace up the skates this weekend in the much-anticpated NHL All-Star Game, but there’s no definite timeline for the Pittsburg Penguins captain to return to regular play.
This has to stop.
There has to be a line between playing with passion and intensity and knowing what is acceptable during a full 60 minutes – all while maintaining the integrity of the game.
Nobody wants to see every move these superstars make scrutinized.
No one wants to see the eradication of physical play or the sweet hip-check that has the whole gang in the living room groaning in collective appreciation.
But hits to the head, whether intentional or accidental, must be dealt a stiff penalty.
An automatic game suspension plus a $3,000 fine would send a strong message to those aiming above the shoulders.
But more importantly it will lay the groundwork for future generations of number 99s and 87s.
We cannot continue to allow this level of violence to continue.
It’s unacceptable, irresponsible and unsportsmanlike.
Let’s get back to the “good ole hockey game.”