Kacy Hintz, a sports anchor and reporter for WRAL, presented this information.

Raleigh, N.C.

Adam Johnson, a former NHL player, passed away on October 28 due to a skate blade cutting his throat during a professional game in England. This tragic event has caused shock and sadness throughout the hockey world, sparking discussions about the importance of neck protection.

The NHL, USA Hockey, and NCAA hockey do not currently mandate the use of neck guards. However, Hockey Canada does require goaltenders and players in minor and female hockey programs to wear BNQ-certified throat protectors. This rule does not apply to junior and senior athletes. Implementing this requirement in the NHL would not happen immediately.

The Carolina Hurricanes have been experimenting with wrist guards and cut-resistant socks as protective equipment. They are also considering testing out neck guards, but ultimately it is the player’s decision without a requirement from the NHL.

”

Brady Skjei, a defenseman for the Hurricanes, expressed his belief that players should be given the choice to wear any attire they prefer. He believes that allowing players to wear what makes them feel safe is the best approach for our team.

Skjei stated that he believes many guys have not worn a protective garment in a long time. However, he is confident that there is a way to find a suitable and secure solution that will make players feel at ease.

For 15 years, Antti Raanta, the goaltender for the Canes, has consistently worn his neck guard and throat protector.

Raanta mentioned that each individual has their own personal preferences, making it difficult to alter them. However, when one is exposed to news or conversations about something, they should be open to giving it a chance without any additional cost.

Raanta acknowledges that individuals have the right to make their own decision, but for him, it holds significant value.

Raanta said that as a parent, it’s important to be involved in your children’s lives. Therefore, he is willing to try anything that can help him stay safe, such as using a neck guard as a goalie.

Rod Brind’Amour participated in more than 1400 NHL matches and was included in the grandfather clause that mandated visors in 2013. Brind’Amour admits that if given the chance, he would have worn a visor.

Brind’Amour stated that he currently has poor vision in one eye due to not wearing a visor. However, if he had worn one throughout his entire career, it would have been a simple adjustment.

The coach, Brind’Amour, thinks it will be difficult to implement the rule with a team of experienced players. Instead, he believes it should begin at the basic level.

Brind’Amour suggested that the children wear it currently, so that when they begin to emerge, it will be seen as a normal occurrence.

A seasoned player who chose to remain anonymous shared with WRAL Sports that he shares the same opinions and also requires his kids to wear neck guards to get accustomed to them. He believes that the current technology for neck guards should be enhanced to keep up with the speed of the NHL game, stating, “They should be more comfortable and breathable. It’s currently difficult to find ones that meet these requirements.”

Source: wralsportsfan.com