Hockey Player Gets Throat Cut By Skate
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in the United States. It is a fast-paced and highly physical game played on a sheet of ice by two teams. Despite the protective gear that players wear, injuries can still occur, and they can be severe. One such incident happened when a hockey player got his throat cut by a skate during a game.
What Happened?
The incident occurred on March 22, 2018, during a game between the Winnipeg Jets and the Nashville Predators. Winnipeg Jets defenseman Jacob Trouba was chasing the puck towards the boards when Nashville Predators forward Kevin Fiala fell to the ice. In an attempt to avoid Fiala, Trouba accidentally skated over his neck with his right skate, causing a deep laceration.
How Serious Was the Injury?
The injury was very serious and potentially life-threatening. According to reports, Fiala suffered a fractured larynx and required emergency surgery. The injury caused him to miss the remainder of the season, including the playoffs.
What Are the Safety Measures in Place?
To prevent injuries like this from happening, the National Hockey League (NHL) has strict safety measures in place. All players are required to wear protective gear, including helmets, mouth guards, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, shin guards, and skates. They are also required to wear neck guards, which are designed to protect the neck and throat from cuts and injuries.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Similar Incidents?
While accidents can happen in any sport, there are steps that can be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. One such step is to increase the use of protective gear, such as neck guards. The NHL could also implement stricter penalties for dangerous plays, such as those that involve skates or other sharp objects.
Conclusion
The incident involving Kevin Fiala serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of playing ice hockey. While the NHL has measures in place to ensure player safety, accidents can still happen. It is important for both players and fans to be aware of these risks and to take precautions to minimize them.
