The National Hockey League (NHL) and the players’ union have been discussing additional safety measures following the tragic death of a player in Britain’s Elite Ice Hockey League. The player, Adam Johnson, died after a skate blade cut his neck, prompting a debate on whether neck protection should be mandatory for players at all levels of the game. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated that while the league wants to prioritize protection, players have the right to make their own decisions. The issue of neck protection has been under consideration by the NHL and the NHL Players’ Association, with a joint committee exploring ways to better protect players from injuries. The English Ice Hockey Association has made neck guards mandatory for all on-ice activities starting from January 1, emphasizing the importance of player safety. The NHL/NHLPA Protective Subcommittee is working to ensure that players have access to cut-resistant equipment to address injuries to the arms and legs. The NHLPA also educates players on the benefits of wearing cut-resistant equipment. NHLPA Executive Director Marty Walsh expressed the need for ongoing conversations and exploration of potential equipment changes in the aftermath of the tragedy.

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