Quote:
Originally Posted by Resolute 14
Honestly Lubicon, and despite what you are trying to say, everything about your post is arguing the removal of body contact from hockey. Full stop.
Because if you take away the ability to throw a body check because someone who isn't aware of his surroundings makes a bad decision, you're punishing the wrong behaviour.
If we're going to make that hit an automatic penalty, then we need to start throwing idiots who skate with their heads down in the penalty box too. Because if you can't touch such a player, that is exactly how they are going to play.
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It's an automatic penalty for high sticking, whenever a guy makes contact. The onus is on the player with the stick not to make contact whether there is intent or not. This isn't much different. Will it reduce open ice hits? Maybe. Will it eliminate hits? Doubtful.
I have no problem with how this hit was ruled. I just suspect that the NHL will likely tweak/enforce the rule whereby it is almost automatic that a head shot will be a penalty. (With the exception if the guy moves his head in a manner that makes it impossible to avoid.) I believe that is the rule in minor hockey, and frankly may be the rule in the NHL now.