However, last night’s game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens featured an ugly injury that reignited the recent debate about fighting in the NHL. Partway through the third period, heavyweight enforcers George Parros and Colton Orr squared off for the second time in the game. As both players wrestled with each other’s jerseys, Parros lost his balance and was knocked unconscious with a hard fall on his chin. Parros was later stretchered off the ice and diagnosed with a concussion.
There is a general consensus among surveyed players today that fighting is still a integral part of hockey. However, it has sparked a fresh debate from media writers who are questioning whether fighting should be eliminated from the game. The latest questions stem from the possibility that the NHL could be held liable for the long-term effects of head injuries suffered from fighting – a debate gaining momentum following concussion-related lawsuits and settlements from the National Football League.
What do you think about fighting in the National Hockey League? Do you think it still has a place in the game in either the amateur or professional level?