Quote:
Originally Posted by Cecil Terwilliger
It isn't just about the version of events that I don't believe. Yes I could argue both hands were on his stick and if he only had one, then the ref only gets a push with gloves. Or maybe that he's been hit 1000x and wouldn't get upset by being hit. Or that he outstretches his arms the way someone falling/losing balance would, not the way someone throwing a crosscheck would.
The big thing for me is that in my 30 years of watching the NHL, I have never, ever, ever heard of a player EVER intentionally skating over to a linesman and crosschecking him in the back. No player in NHL recent NHL history has attacked a linesman intentionally. Even ones like Carcillo were more about being belligerent and ignoring refs commands. It doesn't happen.
Which is why I'd understand if Wideman did attack the ref, the NHL would want a long suspension. What I don't understand is how they think that he did attack the ref. There is enough doubt that the only way I buy this suspension is a) the optics b) they don't want to be embarrassed by an officials work to rule campaign (hey, one victim in Wideman is better than league wide anarchy and bad press) or c) if they knew he'd appeal and this makes sure he gets the suspension they originally wanted without suffering the embarrassment of a) and b).
|
I get your opinion...but I just don't see the incident the same. (which is why we'll never agree on it) When I watch the tape and his reaction immediately after the event, I just don't see an accident at all.
I've been there during hockey games where I lose my cool and I certainly remember taking it out on another player when I shouldn't have. I get your opinion that it doesn't seem logical that he would take it out on a ref, but I believe he did, based on the incident as well as his reaction immediately after. He was pissed off.
It was a split second decision that I'm sure he wishes he could take back. I just don't see this as an accident.