Dennis Wideman Suspension: Unacceptable Explanation

Dennis Wideman Suspension: 20 Games For Not Adhering to Concussion Protocol

We fully expected a Dennis Wideman suspension for his actions prior to the All-Star break, which saw NHL linesman Don Henderson spend overnight in hospital on January 27th.

On Wednesday, it was announced Wideman would miss 20 games, sacrificing a little over $564,000 dollars worth of salary.

The incident stemmed from a hit by Nashville’s Miikka Salomaki on Flames defenseman Dennis Wideman. Slow to get to his feet, Wideman immediately made his way to the bench calling for a line change by smacking his stick on the ice. Skating in a clear daze, it wasn’t until the last moment that Wideman saw linesman Don Henderson. Wideman instinctively got his hands up to protect himself (something that gets ingrained in your head as a hockey player) and made unfortunate contact, hitting Don Henderson from behind for a hard collision.

video of the incident can be found below:

Many who have played hockey can relate to Dennis Wideman’s situation. In fact, it happens all the time. You take a big hit to make a play, getting your bell rung. At the extreme, you’re wobbling your way back to the bench barely able to stay up on your skates. In the less extreme situations, we have Dennis Wideman, where you make your way immediately to the bench. We call this disorientation.

The story suggests Dennis Wideman refused medical attention on the bench, and video supports that. Perhaps there was some obligation on his part to go through the concussion protocol. Regardless, the incident had already taken place. His insistence to stay in the game or ability to play was meaningless in relation to the incident itself.

Reaction to the Dennis Wideman Suspension

The NHLPA and Calgary Flames organization have already gone public with their disappointment in the decision. The NHLPA has already filed an appeal in hopes of reducing the number of games for the suspension.

If the NHL doesn’t cut this number in half at the bare minimum, it sets a dangerous precedent for any potential future accidental scenarios.

Video Explanation Uses Terrible Wording

Jan 16, 2016; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames defensemen Dennis Wideman (6) skates against the Edmonton Oilers at Rexall Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports /

Talk about a confusing, contradictory explanation of the incident. The NHL specifically states they recognize Dennis Wideman was later diagnosed with a concussion as result of the hit. Apparently, the league doesn’t view that as subsequent enough reasoning to explain Wideman’s actions.

The most disturbing part of the video explanation comes when the NHL deems the incident intentional. They even say “this was not accidental”. The NHL usually does an outstanding job in their suspension video explanations (Department of Player Safety does at least). This decision was handed down by suits in a board room who understand little about the game, and all about the business surrounding it. Gary Bettman would’ve been better suited letting the Dept. of Player Safety (guys who deal with this stuff on a daily basis) handle this, or why else have them?

Bubble Wrapping the NHL

Whether it has any direct relation to the overall boring NHL product in today’s game, those within it are constantly having to be less aware and less responsible for themselves. We nearly take fighting out of the game, leaving our superstars more susceptible to injury. We attempt to eliminate head-shots, but ultimately take away big hits in the trolley tracks.

The term “keep your head up” no longer applies in hockey. Rewind 15 years. Try to stickhandle through the middle with your head down. It only took one big hit to learn your lesson.

Nowadays, those big hits result in one of two things: A penalty, or a fight. The art of the big open ice hit has all but disappeared. Try asking the younger generation to take a big hit to make a play like Dennis Wideman. It seems guys are more concerned about avoiding the hit, squirming out the way, and if they make the play, great.

So what’s the difference between past and present? In the past, if you wanted to play like Eric Lindros mesmerizing yourself with your own stickhandling abilities, it’s not Scott Steven’s fault when he rings your bell. Fast forward to now, a Scott Stevens hit would warrant a five-minute major and a likely suspension.

Here’s the problem. We use words such as “vulnerable” or “unsuspecting” for players lacking awareness on the ice. They know if they get hit in these positions, it’s the opposition at fault (likely serving a penalty). This is probably why we have the new phenomena of players turning their back two feet from the boards (pure stupidity). NHL players have lost the responsibility for their 360 degree awareness when on the ice.

Final Take on the Dennis Wideman Suspension

If the NHL can suspend Dennis Wideman for the accidental incident that occurred, it only further perpetuates the cycle. As we go ahead and bubble wrap NHL referees as well, maybe Gary Bettman can put a call into Homer Simpson for his baby-proofing services.

Much like that episode of “The Simpsons“, where Homer and babies flourish with the new changes – hospitals, doctors, and pharmaceuticals suffer. So while the game’s gotten safer and generates more money than ever – fans, sponsors, and media are treated to a boring overall product.

Players having less responsibility is only a contributor to the boring NHL product. Other factors include the overuse of structure without creativity, stronger defensive systems, and better defensive play in general. While there’s something to appreciate about your first overall pick blocking shots (and ultimately getting hurt… cough Ryan Nugent-Hopkins cough), it’s extremely unnecessary with millions of dollars designated to the guy wearing goalie equipment. It’s a different situation down 2-1, game three of the Stanley Cup playoffs; not acceptable in game 53 of the regular season.

Next: Calgary Flames 2016-17 Salary Cap Situation

Let’s hear some feedback. What do you think about the Dennis Wideman suspension? How do you feel about the state of our game? What can we do to improve things? Where do you think our game is headed? We’d love to hear what you think below.

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