Ripples created by the sad demise of Don Sanderson have yet to completely run their course. If the current mood of the collective hockey mind were a President’s Choice sauce, it would be called “Memories of Todd Bertuzzi”. NHL players now play a bigger role in deciding yearly infraction adjustments and the NHLPA submitted a proposal on March 10th that included several pacifist points. The final say will fall to the 10 person “Competition Committee” which includes 1 league governor (owner), 4 general managers and 5 players and they will vote on changes to the rule book in June. The suggested fighting-related revamps include:
- 10 minute major for fights right after a face off or otherwise “staged” fights.
- Stricter enforcement of the instigator penalty for players who start fights avenging clean hits.
- Likewise, more scrutiny given to donnybrook-starting players who wear visors.
George was born for the stage.
Why am I typing this right now? The Eastern Conference champs will be decided only 15 minutes from now! Boston – it’s your friggin’ year. Tim Thomas was just signed for another 4 seasons and the handwriting is on the wall. New York – salvage the rest of your Saturday and just get out of our way, already.
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