In a game between the Ottawa Senators and Washington Capitals on December 7, 2011, this happened:
This was not an accident. After delivering a perfectly legal check on Alexander Ovechkin, Chris Neil smack talks a bit as they head back down the ice. In the process, Ovechkin swings his arms in a skating motion and slyly jams his stick into Neil's midsection. Neil crumbles to the ground in pain. No penalty.
Don't get me wrong - I have absolutely no sympathy for Chris Neil. Let me show you why: Reason #1, Reason #2, Reason #3 ,Reason #4. And there are many, many more instances of his classlessness, but it's beside the point. It shouldn't doesn't matter who commits the violation and who's on the receiving end. What's important is that proper consequences are dealt for a violation - especially spearing. Spearing is an incredibly dangerous action and usually leads to a serious injury. "Fortunately," Neil was not hurt severely on the play.
I absolutely guarantee if this incident happened the other way around, Neil would've received a major penalty and a game misconduct followed by a lengthy suspension. Why is not the same for Ovechkin? Yes, he's worth more money and fans like to see him play, but that can't be an argument for a legitimate, professional league. Just like Neil, Ovechkin is a repeat offender.
I understand that through the course of a hockey game emotions, usually anger, run high. I also understand that some players have bad blood with others. That's why fighting is allowed. It's what makes hockey so unique and wonderful. If you have a problem with someone, drop your gloves and settle it. Don't jam your stick into his stomach. That's pathetic.
Brendan Shanahan, or Sheriff Shanaban, please set an example. Prove that superstars are held to the same standards as the rest of the league. It's way past due.
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