Originally posted by: rh71
Originally posted by: Double Trouble
I don't get it. Sure, it's not a particularly nice thing to say, but why should he be suspended for it? He hasn't violated any laws, or even done something dangerous or otherwise detrimental to anyone else. Essentially he's getting suspended for insulting someone?
The Dallas Stars would have suspended him if the NHL didn't. They don't want a guy who brings personal life-situations - especially about a person who isn't directly involved in the sport - representing their team. Avery hasn't done that before, but if any player were to do it - it'd be him. This isn't even playoff time where underhanded comments would be dished out (if at all). This was simply mean-spirited (to put it lightly) and strictly personal.
The League said the suspension was issued in accordance with the provisions of By-Law 17 and Article 6 of the NHL Constitution for conduct "detrimental to the League or game of hockey."
Hockey is just one of those sports where your own character and respect for other players comes first. It ain't basketball or football. The superstars in the league are usually the highest respected off the ice too. Even the fighters have respect for each other.
I completely agree with this.
He can say all he wants to his teammates, or even try to get under Dion Phaneuf's skin by saying it on the ice and nobody would care.
The game of hockey, and most other sports, demand a high level of respect between the players and respect for the game.
Being strong, agitating, and aggressive can be a good thing for the league when you play with respect (think the flyers in the 70's); however, while it can be argued that Avery is a skilled hockey player, it's completely overshadowed by the fact that he is a total stain on the leagues image.
I'm not sure that there has been another player so disliked by his own peers.