Hockey Player Hits Goalie With Stick
If you’re a hockey fan, you’ve likely seen some pretty intense moments on the ice. But few things are more shocking than when a hockey player hits the goalie with their stick. It’s a dangerous move that can cause serious injury, and it’s important to understand the context behind these incidents and what can be done to prevent them.
What Happened?
On March 6th, 2021, during a game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Detroit Red Wings, Hurricanes forward Jesper Fast accidentally hit Red Wings goalie Thomas Greiss in the head with his stick. The incident occurred during a scramble in front of the net, and Fast appeared to be trying to whack the puck out of mid-air when he made contact with Greiss.
Greiss was visibly shaken up but remained in the game, and no penalty was assessed on the play. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of high-sticking in hockey.
The Rules
According to the NHL rulebook, high-sticking occurs when a player carries their stick above the height of the opponent’s shoulders and makes contact with their opponent. This can result in a minor or major penalty, depending on the severity of the contact and whether or not the player was injured.
However, in some cases, the rulebook leaves room for interpretation. For example, if a player is trying to play the puck and accidentally hits an opponent with their stick, it may not result in a penalty if there was no intent to injure.
The Risks
High-sticking can result in serious injury, particularly when it involves contact with the head or face. In a worst-case scenario, a player could be hit in the eye with a stick and suffer permanent vision loss. Even less severe incidents can result in cuts, bruises, and concussions.
It’s worth noting that goalies are particularly vulnerable to high-sticking incidents, as they often have their heads down and are focused on the puck during scrambles in front of the net. That’s why it’s important for players to exercise caution and awareness when playing in these high-intensity situations.
Prevention
While high-sticking incidents can sometimes be accidental, there are steps that players can take to prevent them from occurring. One of the most important is to wear proper protective gear, including a full cage or shield on their helmet.
Players should also be mindful of their stick position at all times, and avoid carrying their stick too high when they’re in close quarters with other players. Communication is also key; players should be vocal about their intentions and work together to avoid collisions and dangerous situations.
The Bottom Line
High-sticking incidents are a serious matter in hockey, and players need to take steps to prevent them from occurring. By following the rules, wearing proper protective gear, and communicating effectively with their teammates, players can minimize the risk of injury and enjoy a safe and exciting game.
Meta description: High-sticking incidents can be dangerous, particularly for goalies. Here’s what happened when a hockey player hit a goalie with their stick, and what can be done to prevent it.
Meta keywords: hockey, high-sticking, goalie, stick, injury, prevention, rules
