The tragic death of professional hockey player Adam Johnson in October left the sports world in shambles.
Johnson was playing in Britain’s Elite Ice Hockey League for the Nottingham Panthers when a collision occurred that resulted in Johnson’s throat being cut, according to reports.
With Johnson’s death, NHL Hall of Famer Pat LaFontaine spoke out about the safety of the sport, suggesting a throat guard.
“A player should wear as many things, as many protective gear items, that he or she can have,” LaFontaine told Fox.
“The scary thing about hockey is it doesn’t happen very often, but we also use equipment that can cut. I remember what tragically happened, it seems to happen every once in a while, and kind of just realize how great the sport is but how dangerous it can be. And it’s not much to put in. … It takes an extra two seconds to pop on a neck guard.”
LaFontaine suffered from post-concussion syndrome at the end of his career.
“I’m all about safety, I’m all about trying to create a safe and positive environment for the next generation, and the highest levels are the examples that needs to trickle down,” he said. “I have no problem with anything that can help potentially save somebody’s life.”
Johnson’s death caused an investigation and had a suspect arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.
“Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances,” South Yorkshire Detective Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall said in a statement.
“If it can save one person, then it’s worth it,” LaFontaine added. “We just went through a tragedy. I’m all about player safety. It’s part of our generation to make sure we keep it safe for the next generation.”
Johnson was 29.
[Fox]
