ryan smyth

Sometimes the punishment does fit the crime. A hockey player named Kyle Sheen faces a lengthy suspension after a vicious blindside hit to former Edmonton Oiler Ryan Smyth.

Smyth was injured on March 11 in a Senior AAA playoff game. Sheen delivered a blindside hit towards the 41-year-old scored. Hockey Alberta announced Sheen has been suspended for 16 games.

Without a doubt, Sheen targeted Smyth’s head, delivering a brutal check. Smyth was sent to the hospital in an ambulance, while Sheen received a match penalty on the play.

In an interview with CBC Edmonton, Sheen admitted he didn’t like the hit. But, in an attempt to save face, he claimed the hit wasn’t as late as it appeared.

“If you look at the video, I’ve committed to the hit. By the time he releases his backhand, I’m within a stick’s length from him.”

No matter what the intent, Sheen injured Smyth in a senior men’s game. Sure, those games can get feisty, but there’s no need for such lousy, reckless play. The situation tells the story: Smyth scored, Sheen didn’t like it and delivered a stupid hit.

A 16-game suspension might seem harsh, but it’s more than appropriate. Plus, he injured an Edmonton Oilers in Alberta. Sheen wasn’t getting away with a slap on the wrist.

If Sheen decides to pursue men’s league hockey again, I’d suggest he should be considerably much more aware of his surroundings. He deserves the punishment handed his way. Thankfully, Smyth appears to be on the road to recovery.

[Sportsnet]

About Liam McGuire

Social +Staff writer for The Comeback & Awful Announcing. Liammcguirejournalism@gmail.com