On opening night of the 2013-14 regular season, Colorado Avalanche power forward and agitator Steve Downie got himself a Gordie Howe Hat Trick. Last night, Downie threw a completely reckless bodycheck on Predators defenseman Roman Josi. Downie's head was the point of contact and he left his feet as well.

To be clear, the reason I find fault with this sort of play is I hate the total lack of respect players have for one another in this sport. Hitting guys when they are prone or in dangerous position can only be viewed as an attempt to injure a player.

To be honest, the only reason why something like hybrid icing is needed is because some players have lost complete control of themselves. They have no issue going out and shortening another player's career out of sheer disregard and recklessness. I hate to say this, but if you look at Steve Downie's career history from junior hockey through his NHL career to date, he has often been one of the prime suspects for crossing the line in that manner.



you decide...

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