Not everyone paid attention the NHL’s Oct. 11 announcement that the league was updating concussion protocol.
A new staff of spotters will now watch all games in New York and have authorization to remove players from games for evaluation if a player exhibits certain visible signs of a concussion or concussion-like symptoms.
Oilers star Connor McDavid was removed from a game last weekend after falling to the ice. Now, many more are taking notice of the new protocol.
The system has its share of critics. Fans pay big money to see the stars. Can someone watching a monitor really detect if a player has suffered contact that would lead to a concussion or concussion-like symptoms?
I’ll admit the system’s effectiveness is to be determined. However, before we get too critical, let’s remember that a system like this is relatively new and a work in progress.
The protocol may not be perfect, but the National Hockey League should be applauded for attempting to ensure player safety and keep players who suffer head injuries from further health risk.