I am somewhat confused by the lack of supplemental discipline on this play; at least a phone call or even a fine might be in order. I agree with Brad Greul to the extent that I believe any resulting injury should only factor into increasing a suspension and not determine if one was deserved. The act is what should be ruled upon and a minimum standard set so that players understand the risk involved when they commit illegal and dangerous plays.
Brad Marchand was suspended for five games for his low-bridge hit on Sami Salo that resulted in a concussion after the Vancouver Canuck defenceman landed on his head. http://tsn.ca/blogs/kerry_fraser/?id=388032
Shacks' Take: The consistency of NHL discipline rivals that of the on ice officials. In other words, who the hell knows?
Guru of Discipline, Brendan Shanahan, had the opportunity to put an end once and for all to Marchand's low bridge tactics, but instead turned a blind eye further emboldening this little twerp. Marchand is a player any team would want but his antics are getting too dangerous and the league needs to put an end to it. When Kerry Fraser, who tries as hard as he can to side with the league, questions the leagues rulings you know they're making a pretty suspect call. I'm guessing Shanahan was beat down by the upper league management for daring to suspend a Bruin to start with, so he's got to make it right and ignore further transgressions.
No comments:
Post a Comment