It was a ridiculous scene to watch as it occurred in the second period with four minutes and 11 seconds left showing Lagesson was being reckless and quite aggressive against Raska as he attempted to cause him to black out. Luckily, Raska tapped on his shoulder as he did not want to pass out.
What's more disturbing was the fact it took nearly a minute for the referees to enter display and let Lagesson commit this garbage.
In my opinion this behavior should not be tolerated and Lagesson should be handed a fine and a suspension as this is dangerous and completely unnecessary especially in hockey.
While some may find this entertaining I don't as it belongs in the Octagon with the UFC.
After this incident several fans remembered other times this kind of hold happened including the chokehold that Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad did to Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard during last year's Stanley Cup Finals.
Injuries have been going up across the NHL especially dangerous hits as players have become more reckless with their sticks and their bodies against players who are in weak positions. Earlier this year when the season began, the NHL began to crack down on many illegal hits.
It's safe to say if these kinds of dangerous plays continue the fines will increase and the suspensions will get longer. The league also needs to make sure that it keeps its calls consistent especially when some players are deemed a major, while other plays are not even looked at.
Former NHL goaltender Andrew Raycroft chimed in on the move from Lagesson, saying he should be suspended 25 games for the brutal act.
In the end it's the league that takes the hit as its image will be damaged and their players could be seriously hurt for absolutely no reason.
POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 25 | 58 ANSWERS Former Oiler William Lagesson Facing Long Suspension For Dangerous Play During AHL Game Should former Oilers forward William Lagesson be suspended for his chokehold on Adam Raska of the AHL? | ||
Yes | 42 | 72.4 % |
No | 16 | 27.6 % |
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