March 15, 2011

A lot of talk in the hockey world today, about the NHL's new plan to deal with concussions and head shots. Commissioner Gary Bettman has announced a five point plan to improve player safety.

Here are the key highlights...

• Any player showing the symptoms of a concussion would have to be examined by a doctor in a quiet place before retuning to the ice.
• Teams & coaches could face fines if they have players who rack up a high number of suspensions.
• An engineering firm will study all 30 rinks; seamless glass will be eliminated in all rinks by next season.
• The NHL and the NHLPA will continue to examine and modify equipment.
• The NHL will form a special committee of recent players to keep studying the issue of concussions.

Meantime, Sidney Crosby has skated in Pittsburgh for the first time since January 5th. The Penguins captain has missed 29 games with a concussion and spent about 15 minutes on the ice. He said he felt okay, but has no clue when he might be able to play again...

What do you think? Is this new plan enough?