Quote:
Originally Posted by Resolute 14
Except you can't just 'forget' what Pettersson chooses to do. If he chooses to go into the physical areas, then he's going to get hit. And he's going to get hit hard. And if his body can't handle that, then frankly, that diminishes his long term value as an NHL player.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Brad Marsh
And yet we love the physicality too...
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Which is precisely why I have suggested a couple times now that the correct response is to strike a fine balance between safety and the promotion of skill in the game, and physicality and intensity that makes the game so good.
So, clearly "physicality" according to some people's definition includes body slams that make NO contribution to the quality of the play. I don't think I am okay with that. I believe that physicality is necessary, and it manifests in hits along the boards like Bennett's from Saturday night, and like Matheson's on Pettersson without the takedown. I don't see why that is such an affront to some who pontificate on behalf of "physicality."
Perhaps someone can explain to me what is good about the end of Matheson's hit? What are you missing from the game without seeing a kid like Pettersson crumpled in a heap on the ice?