Quote:
Originally Posted by howard_the_duck
The NHLPA being involved doesn't give me any more faith in the protocol. The players want to play, period. Have a look at what former players like Dan Carcillo think of the concussion protocol. It's a joke.
I'd argue to say there are visual signs that are indicative of concussion that would outweigh someone 'acting normal' being an indication they're ok.
A player that is knocked out, or struggling to stand on account of a high impact blow, wobbly legs, etc., there are loads of concussion specialists that would call these tell tale signs, in as much as there are tell tale signs today. The issue is the science is lacking a way to indisputably diagnose concussion on the spot.
That doesn't mean the concussion protocol is ok.
I think it's time to hold the league to a higher standard than a protocol that has failed hundreds of players. The Flames are no more guilty of this than any other team in the league, but I do think it's time for fans (and players) to start demanding more and question the come back period for a hit of this nature.
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Oh I get what you mean, but here's the thing.
The protocol in place NOW, is not the same one that failed players in the past. Spotters alone are at every single game and have the authority to pull players from games if they suspect a head injury. Trainers can pull players. Its happened countless times. Then the professionals take over and make determinations.
I fail to see where there is a problem with that order of events .
Is it sufficient? I don't know nor does anyone else. But we have to at least believe that what is in place is as good as we have based on what is understood this far.
As a fan of the game I dont want guys getting injured in any way and more so something long term (even though it will always be part of the game. Its part of why they are compensated so well and why contracts are guaranteed). Thats not for me to decide though, I leave that to those that actually have training and experience with such things.
The PA HAS to be at the forefront of this though and as of recently are and have been.
My question is this...if pulling a player and having baseline results to compare against in a test are achieved, you have medical staff saying things are ok to go ahead, but the guy looked wonky 20 minutes earlier coming off the ice....what/who should be the determination of when he can return?
Clearly its not the player, nor the coach, and (if im reading correctly from some) not anyone associated with the team.... who in the world should it be?