The recent tragic death of American hockey player Adam Johnson in a game in Sheffield, England, has brought to light the dangers that exist in the sport. Johnson, who was a member of the Nottingham Panthers in England’s top league, tragically lost his life after his throat was cut by an opponent’s skate during a game last week. It’s a devastating loss for the hockey community, especially considering that Johnson had previously played 13 NHL games with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Unsurprisingly, this heartbreaking incident has prompted leagues and teams to re-evaluate their rules regarding players wearing neck protection. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of safety in the sport, but unfortunately, such awareness often fades over time.