Mr Geoff Molson has released a statement to Montreal Canadiens fans showing both class and also voicing a strong message to the NHL’s disciplinary system.
The Montreal Canadiens organization does not agree with the decision taken yesterday by the National Hockey League. We can assure you that we have made our position clear to Commissioner Gary Bettman, and that he has agreed to make this issue a priority at the next General Manager’s meeting, which will be held in Florida on March 14-16.
Our organization believes that the players’ safety in hockey has become a major concern, and that this situation has reached a point of urgency. At risk are some of the greatest professional athletes in the world, our fan base and the health of our sport at all levels. Players’ safety in hockey must become the ultimate priority and the situation must be addressed immediately. As a proud father of three hockey players, I want to help create a healthy and safe experience for them, and I certainly never want any family to go through what the Pacioretty’s are experiencing at this moment.
The entire letter can be read here and I certainly encourage you to read it all.
http://canadiens.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=555639
This letter is not written specifically to the Pacioretty incident and mirrors my concerns.
Max came within inches of being permanently paralyzed or even death. Enough is enough.
Even last night, another dangerous hit…. head shot by Kubina on Bolland.
Earlier in the season, another owner came out with strong words for the NHL. That being Mario Lemieux.
To do nothing is to agree that it’s ok to have these dangerous reckless hits.
Reckless hits need to be strongly discouraged.
I applaud you Mr Molson for taking leadership on this issue.
