**Kings' Jeannot Faces Hearing For Head Check**

Tecfai Editorial Team

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 09, 2024

47 visitor like this post

Share

Kings' Jeannot Faces Hearing for Head Check: A Turning Point in the NHL's Discipline?

The NHL's Department of Player Safety has announced that Ryan Reaves of the Nashville Predators will have a hearing for his hit on Austin Watson of the Los Angeles Kings. The incident, which occurred during the third period of the Predators' 4-3 overtime victory over the Kings on Saturday, has sparked debate about the league's commitment to player safety and the effectiveness of its current disciplinary system.

The Play in Question

With just under five minutes remaining in regulation, Reaves delivered a forceful check to Watson, sending the Kings forward crashing headfirst into the boards. Watson, who remained on the ice for several minutes before skating off the ice, appeared to be dazed and disoriented. While the play was deemed a "charging" penalty by the on-ice officials, the league's player safety department elected to review the incident further.

The Need for Discipline

This incident, and the ensuing hearing, raises important questions about the NHL's approach to player safety. While the league has implemented a number of initiatives in recent years to protect players from head injuries, such as the "Do Not Call" rule and the "Blindside Hit" rule, the number of head-targeting incidents remains a concern for fans and players alike.

Critics of the NHL's current disciplinary system argue that it lacks consistency and often fails to deter players from delivering dangerous hits. They point to a number of recent examples where players have received seemingly lenient penalties for head-targeting hits, which creates the perception that the league is not serious about protecting its players.

What the Hearing Means

The hearing for Reaves could be a turning point in the NHL's approach to player safety. If Reaves is given a significant suspension, it would send a clear message that the league will not tolerate head-targeting hits, regardless of the intent behind them.

Conversely, if Reaves receives only a minor penalty, or no penalty at all, it would further fuel the criticism that the league's disciplinary system is broken.

Ultimately, the outcome of Reaves' hearing will be closely watched by players, coaches, and fans alike. It will be a test of the NHL's commitment to player safety and a measure of its willingness to take a stand against head-targeting hits, regardless of the player involved.

Keywords: NHL, Ryan Reaves, Austin Watson, Nashville Predators, Los Angeles Kings, head check, player safety, discipline, suspension, Department of Player Safety, Do Not Call rule, Blindside Hit rule, hockey, charging penalty, head injury.