"NHL Headhunters Warned"

[commadore183 103]

Sorry if this is being discussed elsewhere, but I thought the members here would like to know.

Toronto Star article

In an effort to stop what has become a disturbing trend, the NHL is threatening stiffer penalties for hits to the head.

A memo circulated by league disciplinarian Colin Campbell and posted in each club's dressing room warns that there will be consequences for skaters who don't play nice.

"We cannot and will not tolerate blows to the head that are deliberate, avoidable and illegal," reads the memo.

The NHL notice goes on to state: "The length of suspensions for illegal blows to the head will be increased if these incidents persist across the league. Taking steps to maintain the safest on-ice environment possible for the players remains our most important priority."

I am happy that the NHL is, apparently, going to crack down on hits to the head. I hope this means that, if the NHL is going to do this, that the players will be more careful on how they hit. I just wonder how few games Pronger would get if he goes headhunting, if any at all

[mjlegend 155]

The lesson we take from Pronger is: "If you're going to head-hunt, do it in the playoffs because we don't have the balls to suspend anyone for damaging a player in the most important time of the season."

I don't suspect much will change come April. Collie will still either give a pocket-change fine or a one game susp. the next time Pronger elbows someone in April. If the Ducks make it that far.

[AtomicPunk 296]

If safety of the players is really Campbell's priority, how about no-touch icing?

[VM1138 1,921]

Headhunting is horrible. But as usual, they will have their Prongers to defend at any cost. If they had punished half as much as they should have over the years, Pronger would be in prison.

[Detroit # 1 Fan 2,204]

Part of the game. This doesnt scare anyone, Pronger is still going to do it, Tootoo still will. Hopefully when they do the NHL hands them a big one, that'll teach them.

[CrossoverThrash 0]

i hate how thier using the ******* Weight hit as an example, at least use a ******* elbow or actual dirty hit not a 100% ******* clean one

[Dabura 12,232]

"P.S. None of this applies to Mr. Chris Pronger, as he is simply really tall.

P.P.S We still on for Saturday, Chrissy? Call me. xoxo"

[Guest Shoreline]

May as well pre-empt the situation, suspend Chris Pronger 50 games right off the bat, just so we can deal with some podunk explanation later on as to why he got off light.

In all seriousness though they should tread a fine line. I don't want to see this league turn into the No Fun League.

Edited November 19, 2008 by Shoreline