Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Year of the Concussion continues

It seems every night there are more incidents followed by Colin Campbell spinning the Wheel of Justice.

Here is Steve Downie actually leaving his feet to make a hit. This is clearly charging as Downie launched himself into his opponent. Downie got a one game suspension.



Next is Chris Kunitz who can be seen aiming his elbow at the back of Simon Gagne's head. Gagne was not injured on the play and that definitely played a part in why Kunitz will miss only one game.



This is the puzzling call and why the problem with hits to the head will not disappear. Raffi Torres levels Brent Seabrook behind the net and walks away with just a minor for interference but no suspension. The explanation from the NHL is that Rule 48 was not intended to outlaw shoulder to head hits or hits behind the net. And that is the problem with the NHL policy. Hits to the head are still considered part of the game as long as the player didn't leave his feat or use an elbow.

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