NEW YORK – The National Hockey League released the following statement this morning concerning the hit by Raffi Torres on Marian Hossa in last night’s game in Chicago.
Phoenix Coyotes forward Raffi Torres has been suspended indefinitely, pending an in-person hearing Friday, April 20, the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety announced today. The hearing, which had been planned for today, was deferred at the request of the player and the National Hockey League Players’ Association. The hearing will be convened at the NHL’s New York office for a hit Torres delivered to Chicago forward Marian Hossa 11:42 into the first period of Game 3 of the teams’ Western Conference Quarterfinal series in Chicago on Tuesday, April 17.
That the hit did not generate a penalty in the game is mystifying. Torres is clearly seen launching himself into Hossa in the neutral zone. This hit seems to be intentional at any speed of replay and at any angle of replay. How can four sets of officiating eyes not see the hit?
What will it take for the NHL to protect its most vital resource, its players? Social media outlets were buzzing after the hit asking that and similar questions. Will it take the maiming of a player? The death of a player after an excessively aggressive hit?
The NHL came down hard on NY Ranger coach John Tortorella near the end of the regular season for calling out the Pittsburgh Penguins organization following a hit on a Ranger player. The league’s tepid responses to hits on players other than their stars can only beg questions from fans and pundits and lovers of the sport. Where is the swift and unquestionable reaction to the hits? And not just those to the front line faces of the league. But for all players in the NHL. All deserve equal protection from the league and Brendan Shanahan’s office.
Tortorella complained of whining from the Pittsburgh organization. Perhaps that’s true but they are protecting their investments and assets. One cannot argue that they are protective. But where is the vociferous outrage from other clubs?
Fines and suspensions have been levied all season long to no avail. Players still go headhunting on the ice and the Hossa’s of the NHL are left staggered and motionless on the ice while predators of the league seemingly skate free with a slap on the wrist or a poke at the wallet.
One, two, three game suspensions? A quick rest for most as the season drags on and the playoff push comes up. A $2,500 fine? Players peel that cash off their spare roll in the back pocket of their slacks.
Hockey is no pillow fight, we recognize that. But neither is it a blood sport where broken bodies are left on the coliseum floor for the lions to clean up at the end of the day.
Good thing the AHL is stocked with young talent. Many may just get the call they have been waiting for. Be careful what you wish for boys, no one has your back or your butt covered.
Contact Lou.Lafrado@prohockeynews.com
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