Brashear Pulls A Simon

Ghostwalker upped the Brashear hit on Betts, which I embedded below. First Brash took a shove from Cally, who then went to the bench. Then, looking for a target Brash happened upon Bettsy and nailed him in the head as he was coming off his follow through from dumping the puck. Should the league do the right thing and suspend the repeat offender Brashear long-term? Do you think Brash will use the Chris Simon defense - that he was hit first and 'concussed'? Say what you want about Sean Avery's antics, he doesn't attempt to injure - just to annoy.

 Brashear Pulls a Simon: A Controversial Moment in Hockey History

In the world of professional ice hockey, moments of intense physicality and aggression are not uncommon. However, some incidents transcend the usual boundaries of rough play and become infamous in the sport's history. One such moment is when Donald Brashear "pulled a Simon," a reference to an incident involving both Brashear and Chris Simon. In this article, we'll delve into the controversial incident, the background of the players involved, and explore some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to on-ice altercations in hockey.

The Incident

The incident in question occurred during an NHL game on March 8, 2007, between the Vancouver Canucks and the New York Islanders. The game was intense, with both teams battling for a crucial victory. However, the turning point came when Chris Simon, a forward for the Islanders, committed a shocking act of aggression against Donald Brashear, a forward for the Canucks.

As the game progressed, tensions between the two players escalated. In the second period, with both players on the ice, Simon struck Brashear with a two-handed swing of his stick to Brashear's face. The vicious slash was both dangerous and entirely unacceptable within the context of professional hockey. Brashear immediately fell to the ice, and a brawl ensued involving players from both teams.

Background of Donald Brashear and Chris Simon

To fully understand the gravity of the incident, it's essential to explore the backgrounds of the two players involved.

Donald Brashear:

Brashear was a well-known enforcer in the NHL, a role often assigned to players who protect their teammates through physical play and, if necessary, fighting.

He was known for his willingness to drop the gloves and engage in fights when called upon.

Brashear had a reputation for being tough and intimidating on the ice, but he also had a more significant skill set than some other enforcers.

Chris Simon:

Simon, too, was known as an enforcer but was perhaps best known for his physical play, which sometimes crossed the line into dirty or dangerous territory.

He had faced disciplinary actions from the NHL for various on-ice incidents throughout his career.

Simon's reputation as a tough player often overshadowed his abilities as a skilled forward.

Consequences of the Incident

The consequences of this incident were significant and far-reaching:

Suspension: Chris Simon was immediately ejected from the game and later received a record-breaking suspension of 25 games. This suspension was one of the longest in NHL history at the time.

Public Outcry: The incident sparked outrage among hockey fans, players, and analysts. It raised questions about player safety and the need for more severe penalties for dangerous on-ice actions.

Impact on Brashear: Donald Brashear suffered a laceration to his face and a mild concussion as a result of the slash. While he returned to play in the NHL, the incident undoubtedly left a lasting impact.

Discussion on Player Safety: The incident led to renewed discussions about player safety in the NHL. It prompted the league to take a closer look at rules and regulations governing dangerous plays, with a particular focus on stick-related incidents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why are altercations and fights common in hockey?

Altercations and fights in hockey often stem from the physical nature of the sport. Players are in close quarters, and emotions run high during intense games. Fighting has historically been a way for players to police the game and protect their teammates.

What is the role of an enforcer in hockey?

An enforcer is a player who specializes in physical play and fighting. They are often tasked with deterring opponents from taking liberties with their teammates. While enforcers are less common in modern hockey, they played a prominent role in the past.

Has the NHL taken steps to address player safety since the incident?

Yes, the NHL has implemented several rule changes and safety measures to protect players. These include stricter penalties for dangerous plays, changes to equipment regulations, and a greater emphasis on concussion protocols.

Are incidents like the one involving Brashear and Simon still common in the NHL?

While the NHL has made efforts to reduce dangerous plays, on-ice incidents can still occur. However, there is greater awareness of player safety, and the league takes a more proactive approach to discipline.

How did the Brashear-Simon incident affect the careers of the two players?

The incident had a significant impact on both players' careers. While Donald Brashear continued to play in the NHL, Chris Simon's reputation as a repeat offender made it challenging for him to secure contracts with NHL teams in the following years.

The incident where Donald Brashear "pulled a Simon" serves as a stark reminder of the physicality and intensity of professional ice hockey. While fighting and aggressive play have been part of the sport's culture, such incidents highlight the need for player safety and discipline in the NHL. The long suspension handed to Chris Simon and the discussions that followed helped shape a safer and more responsible approach to the game, emphasizing skill and sportsmanship while minimizing dangerous actions on the ice.