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I think a bunch of people say "Wow, that was good old time hockey hit right there" it means that hit really isn't necessary in today's game. I used to love those types of hits, but honestly I'd rather see the skill and speed of the game. There's no reason to go after unsuspecting players like that. The only intent of hits like that are injury because in most cases the puck is nowhere near or it wouldn't have made an impact on the play of the puck.</p>
Also, the "He should've kept his head up" argument is kind of ludicrous too. Sure, it would be ideal if a player never, ever had to look down, but it happens and you have to from time to time.</p>
Maybe I'm just getting soft as I get older, but to me the joy in hockey is not in the hitting. I still enjoy a good, hard check, but not to unsuspecting players and not if you're going to leave your feet to do it.</p>
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This is a great post. I feel the same way these days. I remember when I used to watch things like the Scott Stevens on Paul Kariya hit and say, "DAMN he got knocked the **** out!!!" all enthusiastically. Now that I realize just what that can mean to a guy's career and personal health...I rarely say that anymore.</p>
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Hockey hits are fun to watch but anytime I hear "oh he just got his bell rung...no big deal" I cringe and grind my teeth a bit. Concussions are a huge deal. I'm glad there are a lot of scientific/medical studies looking at this issue.</p>